Microcompression Tests of a BMG and a Tungsten/BMG Composite

Uniaxial-compression tests of micron-scale specimens (microcompression tests) of a bulk metallic glass (BMG) and of a tungsten/BMG composite have been performed to contribute to understanding of size-dependent mechanical properties of these and other, similar materials. There is increasing interest in fabricating micro- electromechanical systems from BMGs, and in fabricating kinetic-energy (ballistic) penetrators from BMGs and tungsten/ BMG composites. While the mechanical properties and deformation mechanisms of macroscopic, monolithic BMGs in bulk form are generally well understood, these properties are not necessarily equivalent for the BMG alloys cast in composite form or for micron-scale specimens. In a tungsten/BMG composite, dissolution of tungsten in the BMG matrix frequently manifests itself in the formation of complex crystalline phases and the concomitant decrease in the overall amorphous content of the matrix. Hence, it becomes important to compare the properties and deformation mechanisms of the monolithic BMG with those of the BMG as found in the composite accompanied by other phases and heterogeneities.