Mechanical properties of tungsten fiber reinforced ZrAlNiCuSi metallic glass matrix composite

Tungsten fiber reinforced (Zr55Al10Ni5Cu30)98.5Si1.5 metallic glass composites were fabricated and characterized. The mechanical properties of the composite under compression and tension were investigated. Tungsten reinforcement greatly increased compressive strain to failure compared to the unreinforced (Zr55Al10Ni5Cu30)98.5Si1.5 metallic glass. The compressive failure mode changed from a single shear band to multiple shear bands and to localized fiber buckling and tilting as the volume fraction of tungsten fiber increased. The maximum tensile strength and strain to failure of each of the composites were lower than those of unreinforced material due to the lack of substantial shear bands. Tensile toughness changed to some extent due to different interface reactions. The reason for the improved mechanical properties is discussed.