Design of Bulk Metallic Glasses and Glass Matrix Composites Near Intermetallic Composition by the Principle of Competitive Growth

Abstract

A Cu₄₉Zr₅₁ intermetallic is used as a base for synthesizing metallic glasses and composites with glass matrixes [(Cu₄₉Zr₅₁)_{100 – x}Al_x, where x = 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 at.%]. The introduction of aluminum raises the microhardness and the ultimate compressive strength. In addition, the suppression of formation of crystalline phase upon the introduction of 8 at.% Al provides a glass-like structure in alloy (Cu₄₉Zr₅₁)₉₂Al₈. The formation of the glass-like structure is discussed within the concept of competitive nucleation of different intermetallics.