Mechanically driven phase separation and corresponding microhardness change in Cu60Zr20Ti20 bulk metallic glass

Abstract

Rolling deformation of bulk Cu60Zr20Ti20 metallic glass has been performed at cryogenic temperature. The specimens exhibit excellent ductility, and are rolled up to 97% reduction in thickness without fracture. Crystallization is suppressed during the deformation, however, phase separation is observed in the glassy matrix when the thickness reduction exceeds 89%. Once the phase separation occurs, the microhardness of the specimen increases drastically, indicating the existence of work hardening by severe plastic deformation of the metallic glass. © 2005 American Institute of Physics.