Al (Metal)-Cu50Zr50 (Metallic Glass) Interface Response to Cyclic Deformation: An Atomistic Simulation Study

Abstract

The role of the interface is vital in determining the mechanical behaviour of the composite. So, the present study investigates the Al-Cu50Zr50 metallic glass interface behaviour subjected to strain-controlled cyclic deformation in Al-metal matrix composites reinforced with Cu50Zr50 metallic glass. The interface model is studied by performing molecular dynamics simulations. The interactions between Al, Cu and Zr atoms are modelled using the embedded atoms method (EAM) potential. The model is subjected to compression-tension cycles at a strain amplitude of 0.01 up to 20 cycles at a constant temperature of 300 K. The results show that the interface shows cyclic hardening behaviour because the peak stress increases with an increase in the number of cycles. Microstructural analysis in the Al region shows the formation of stacking faults and Lomer-Cottrell barriers. Also, the formation of stacking fault tetrahedrons is observed. The Voronoi structural analysis in Cu50Zr50 metallic glass reveals the breakdown of the (0 0 12 0) icosahedral network and the formation of new clusters. The interface did not fracture till the subjected number of cycles.