Quasi-static and dynamic deformation behaviors of in situ Zr-based bulk-metallic-glass-matrix composites

Quasi-static and dynamic deformation behaviors of Zr-based bulk-metallic-glass-matrix composites, fabricated by Bridgman solidification, were investigated in this study. Upon quasi-static compressive loading, the composites exhibit ultrahigh strength, accompanied by considerable plasticity. The multiplication of shear bands on the lateral surface of deformed samples, and the highly-dense liquid drops on the fracture surface, are in agreement with the improved plasticity. However, upon dynamic loading, the mechanical properties of the composites deteriorate considerably, due to insufficient time to form profuse shear bands. The strain-rate responses of the mechanical properties of the crystalline alloys and the in situ and ex situ bulk metallic glass composites are compared, and the different deformation mechanisms of the in situ composites upon quasi-static and dynamic loading are explained.