Global melting of Zr57Ti5Ni8Cu20Al10 bulk metallic glass under microcompression

Abstract

Global melting was observed in micron-sized pillar samples tested under microcompression. In addition to a higher strength that was reproduced in samples with different sizes, a large plastic strain was also observed prior to the final fracture, as compared to bulk counterparts. The global melting was a result of the final fracture as evidenced by the acoustic emission at the end of the microcompression. However, the increased strain rate and large plastic strain might have contributed to the temperature increase prior to the fracture.