Enhancing dynamic mechanical properties of bulk metallic glass composites via deformation-induced martensitic transformation

Due to the lack of plastic strain accommodation and work-hardening capability, brittleness still dominates dynamic deformation in most bulk metallic glass composites (BMGCs). Herein, we present a series of Zr-based BMGCs characterized with a unique combination of fracture strain of ~15%, ultimate strength of ~1550 MPa and unusual two-stage work-hardening behavior upon dynamic loading. The strain-induced martensitic transformation occurred, not only homogenizes the dynamic plastic flow, but also compensates the amorphous work-softening. Our work highlights a novel route for developing high-performance BMGCs for high-speed applications, and sheds new insights on the deformation mechanisms of BMGCs.