Compressive fracture characteristics of Zr-based bulk metallic glass

The compressive fracture characteristics of Zr-based bulk metallic glass under uniaxial compression tests are studied. The zigzag rheological behavior is observed in the compression stress-strain curves of amorphous alloys. At room temperature the uniaxial compression fracture takes place along the plane which is at a 45-degree angle to the direction of the compressive stress. The microstructure of a typical fracture pattern is the vein network. A unique, finger-like vein pattern is found to exist at the fracture surface of Zr-based bulk metallic glass.