Enhanced thermal stability and microhardness in Zr–Ti–Cu–Ni–Be bulk amorphous alloy by carbon addition

Abstract

The effects of carbon addition on thermal stability and hardness of Zr41Ti14Cu12.5Ni10Be22.5 bulk amorphous alloy were investigated. It is found that a small amount of carbon addition further extends the supercooled liquid range and enhances the thermal stability and strength of the alloy. More carbon addition results in the formation of a crystalline and amorphous mixture accompanied by a pronounced increase in microhardness. The effects of the carbon addition on the amorphous alloy are discussed from the structural point of view.