Deformation behaviors of Zr-based bulk metallic glass under impact indentation

Abstract

Metallic glasses are amoiphous meta-stable solids and are now being processed in bulk form suitable for structural applications under impact loading. Bulk metallic glasses have many unique mechanical properties such as high yield strength and fracture toughness, good corrosion and wear resistance that distinguish them from crystalline metals and alloys. However, only a few studies could be found mentioning the dynamic response and damage of metallic glasses under impact or shock loading. In this study, we employed a small explosive detonator for the dynamic indentation to a Zr-based bulk amorphous metal in order to evaluate the damage behavior of bulk amorphous metal under impact or shock loading conditions. Results were compared with those of spherical indentation under quasistatic and impact loading and were discussed. The interface bonded specimen method was adopted in order to observe the subsurface damage, especially the formation of shear bands induced during indentation under different loading conditions.