Deformation behavior during nanoindentation in Ce-based bulk metallic glasses

The deformation behavior and the effect of the loading rate on the plastic deformation in Ce-based bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) were investigated through nanoindentation tests. The results showed that the loading rate dependence of plastic deformation during nanoindentation measurements in the Ce-based BMGs is quite unique in contrast to that of other BMG alloys. The load-displacement (P-h) curves of Ce₆₀Al₁₅Cu₁₀Ni₁₅ BMG exhibit a homogeneous plastic deformation at low loading rates, and a prominent serrated flow at high strain rates, whereas, the P-h curves of Ce ₆₅Al₁₀Cu₁₀Ni₁₀Nb₅ exhibit homogenous plastic deformation at all studied loading rates. The room temperature creep behavior could clearly be observed in these two alloys. The mechanism of the unique plastic deformation feature in the Ce-based BMGs was studied.