Microwave sintering of Ni-based bulk metallic glass matrix composite in a single-mode applicator

Abstract

Microwave (MW) heating and sintering of Ni-based bulk metallic glass matrix composite, consisting of gas-atomized Ni52.5Zr15Nb 10Ti15Pt7.5 glassy alloy and tin powders, was performed without external pressure by using a single-mode applicator. These powders could be heated well in the magnetic field maximum, but not heated enough in the electric field maximum. A bulk sintered body with the retention of the amorphous phase was obtained below 783 K in an inert atmosphere. The addition of Sn particles promoted the densification of the sintered Ni 52.5Zr15Nb10Ti15Pt7.5 glassy specimen. The results suggest that the MW sintering of metallic glasses offers a flexibility of fabricating bulk metallic glasses and metallic glass matrix composites. © 2008 The Japan Institute of Metals.