Mechanical behavior of metallic glasses

Abstract

This is a review of the present knowledge of the mechanical behavior of metallic glasses. It begins with a brief discussion of their structures and how these relate to the small change (about 1%) in mass density that occurs when a metallic glass is crystallized. Then the elastic, anelastic, plastic, and strength properties are reviewed. Mechanisms of plastic flow are discussed. A quantitative dislocation model that successfully predicts the observed yield stresses is presented. Needs for producing future understanding are outlined.