Preparation, structure and properties of Fe-based bulk metallic glasses

Purpose: The work presents preparation methods, structure characterization and chosen properties analysis of Fe-based bulk metallic glasses in as-cast state. Design/methodology/approach: The studies were performed on Fe43Co14Ni14B20Si5Nb4 metallic glass in form of rings, plates and rods. The amorphous structure of tested samples was examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) methods. The thermal properties of the glassy samples was measured using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The soft magnetic properties examination of tested material contained coercive force, initial magnetic permeability and magnetic permeability relaxation measurements. Findings: The XRD and TEM investigations revealed that the studied as-cast samples were amorphous. Broad diffraction halo is typical for metallic amorphous structures that have a large degree of short-range order. The characteristics of the fractured surfaces showed different zones, which might correspond with different amorphous structures of studied materials. The temperature interval of the supercooled liquid region (ÄTx) defined by the difference between Tg and Tx, is as large as 56 K for the rod with diameter of 3 mm. Differences in coercivity and magnetic permeability between samples with different thickness might be resulted by some difference of amorphous structure. Practical implications: The centrifugal casting method and the pressure die casting method are useful to produce bulk amorphous materials in form of rings, plats and rods. Originality/value: The preparation of studied Fe-based bulk metallic glass in form of rings, plates and rods is important for the future progress in research and practical application of that glassy materials.