Structural relaxation and crystallization of a Zr44Ti11CU9.8Ni10.2Be25 bulk metallic glass

Abstract

The influence of annealing on the structural changes and the room temperature mechanical properties of a Zr44Ti11Cu9.8Ni10.2Be25 bulk metallic glass has been investigated. The structural evolution upon relaxation or crystallization after annealing at a temperature within the supercooled liquid region was studied by thermal analysis, x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, extended x-ray absorption fine structure and dilatometer measurements. The effects of structural relaxation and nanocrystallization on the mechanical properties were also examined by hardness and compression tests using specimens annealed for various times. The apparent disappearance of plastic strain was found to be due to embrittlement induced by considerable crystallization of the amorphous phase.