Multiple maxima in glass-forming ability in Al–Zr–Ni system

Abstract

In this paper, we report one interesting finding of a multiple maxima in glass-forming ability within a single eutectic system in the Al-rich region of Al–Zr–Ni ternary alloys. This is the first time that two local optimum glass formers in a single eutectic system have been reported. It is hereby suggested that glass formation is an intricate balance of kinetic, thermodynamic and topological factors.