Structure and mechanical properties of a Fe90Zr10 amorphous alloy

Abstract

The structure of a Fe90Zr10 amorphous alloy was investigated by means of small angle X-ray scattering as well as large-angle diffraction measurements. For as-quenched specimens, SAXS was found to be relatively weak, but spread over a wide scattering angle. After quantitative analysis, it was concluded that a compositional fluctuation occurs on a fine scale of about 0.6 nm. When the specimen was heat treated below the crystallization temperature, the amorphous structure changed to a more stable dual structure consisting of pure iron and a structure similar to Fe3Zr. By prolonged heat treatment, the iron-rich regions crystallized initially from the amorphous state. An apparent correspondence was found to exist between the changes in the amorphous structure and in the mechanical properties. The microscopic phase separation within the amorphous state resulted in an increase of ultimate tensile strength and fracture toughness. The deterioration of mechanical properties was suggested to be attributed to the gradual crystallization of iron-rich regions.