Indentation-induced deformation localisation in Zr–Cu-based metallic glass

It has been well documented that the plastic deformation of bulk metallic glasses is localised in thin shear bands. In order to comprehensively understand deformation mechanisms of BMGs, it is necessary to investigate formation of shear bands and related deformation. Nano-indentation studies with a spherical indenter were carried out to characterise shear-band localisation on a surface of Zr-Cu-based metallic glass. The load-displacement diagram of an indentation cycle reflects an elastic deformation followed by the first pop-in at around 4 mN. In addition, an alternative technique is proposed to characterise a plasticity mechanism through the evolution of localised shear bands beneath the indentation – wedge indentation. It is found that a hemicylindrical region of shear bands is formed beneath the indentation zone in this case.