Stable structure of Zr49Cu44Al7 metallic glass matrix composite with CuZr phase under high pressure up to 40.8 GPa

Ternary Zr₄₉Cu₄₄Al₇ metallic glass matrix composite rods with CuZr nano-phase, exhibiting an elastic strain of 1.6% and a high strength of 1.78 GPa, have been manufactured. The structural evaluation of the ternary metallic glass matrix composite under high pressure has been investigated using angle dispersive X-ray diffraction with a synchrotron radiation source. The investigation shows that the amorphous matrix structure is stable under pressures up to 40.8 GPa at room temperature. No pressure induced CuZr nano-phase disappearing or growing was detected. According to the Bridgeman equation of state, the bulk modulus B ₀ =115.2 GPa has been obtained.