Ductilization of BMGs by optimization of nanoparticle dispersion

In situ optimized heat treatment in high-energy monochromatic beam of synchrotron light was conduced to generate fine nanoparticle dispersions in Zr-based alloys. Effect of embedded nanocrystals on the mechanical properties of our BMG-composites was investigated by compressive testing at room temperature. We found that the newly created nanostructured composites show good strength at high ductility with no work hardening. Based on TEM observations, a new mechanism was proposed which compensates for shear softening. The nanocrystals initially smaller than the elementary shear band were expected to growth in active shear band during deformation.