Atomic packing density and its influence on the properties of Cu-Zr amorphous alloys

Abstract

This study examined the structural factors governing the physical and mechanical properties of the amorphous alloys. It was found that these properties are intimately related to the atomic packing density characterized by the atomic-scale structures, as defined by the polygonal short-range ordered (SRO) atomic clusters and the free volume. The Young`s modulus, yield strength, and crystallization temperature decreased as the atomic packing density decreased, while the plasticity increased. We report that the origin of the material properties of the amorphous alloys lies in the atomic packing state, which is characterized by the SRO atomic clusters and free volume. amorphous alloy; atomic packing density; mechanical and physical properties; short-range ordering;