Structure and Properties of Mg-Cu-(Y,Ca) Bulk Metallic Glasses / Struktura I Własności Masywnych Szkieł Metalicznych Mg-Cu-(Y,Ca)

Abstract

The work presents preparation methods, structure characterization and mechanical properties analysis of Mg-based bulk metallic glasses in as-cast state and after crystallization process. The studies were performed on Mg60Cu30Y10 and Mg37Cu36Ca27 glassy alloys in the form of plates and rods. The X-ray diffraction investigations revealed that the tested samples with different thicknesses and shapes were amorphous. The characteristics of the fractured surfaces showed mixed fractures with the “river” and “mirror” patterns, which are characteristic for the glassy materials and some “smooth” areas. The samples of Mg37Cu36Ca27 alloy presented a two-stage crystallization process, but addition of Y caused a single stage crystallization behavior. Qualitative phase analysis from the X-ray data of examined alloys annealed at 473 K enabled the identification of Mg, Mg2Cu, Cu2Mg and CaCu crystalline phases. The changes of compressive strength as a function of annealing temperature for studied rods were stated. The best mechanical properties including microhardness and compressive strength were obtained for the alloy with the addition of Y in as-cast state.