Atomic structure transition for various solidification paths of Pd40Ni40P20 at different cooling rates.

Demonstrating the cooling rate effect on the solidification path is a massive challenge. In this paper, the atomic structure of the Pd 40 Ni 40 P 20 melt was statistically "snapped" at different temperatures with two different cooling rates. The structure evolution was analyzed with in situ high-energy X-ray diffraction method and Reverse Monte Carlo simulation. It indicates that the presence of Liquid-Liquid Phase Transition (LLPT) makes the melt more inclined to form crystal but the higher cooling rate leads to an insufficient transition retaining more icosahedral-like clusters. This work provides dynamic guidance for understanding the competition between crystallization and vitrification. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]