Synthesis and characterization of particulate reinforced Zr57Nb5Al10Cu15.4Ni12.6 bulk metallic glass composites

The Zr57Nb5Al10Cu15.4Ni12.6 bulk metallic glass forming liquid is reinforced with WC, SiC, W, or Ta particles. Structure, microstructure and thermal stability of the composites are studied by X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. The metallic glass matrix remains amorphous after adding up to 20 vol.% of particles. The reactions at the interfaces between the matrix and the different reinforcing materials are investigated with scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and electron microprobe. The mechanical properties of the composites are studied in compression and tension. The influence of the introduced particles on the thermal stability of the matrix as well as on the mechanical properties is discussed. (C) 1999 Acta Metallurgica Inc. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.