Structural transformations in the Al85Ni6.1Co2Gd6Si0.9 amorphous alloy during multiple rolling

The effect of multiple rolling at room temperature on the structure and crystallization of the Al85Ni6.1Co2Gd6Si0.9 amorphous alloy has been studied using transmission electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction. The total plastic strain is 33%. It has been shown that the deformation results in the formation of aluminum nanocrystals with the average size that does not exceed 10-15 nm. The nanocrystals are formed in regions of localization of plastic deformation. The deformation decreases the thermal effect of nanocrystallization (similar to 15%) as compared to the heat release at the first stage of crystallization of the unstrained sample. The morphology, structure, and distribution of precipitates have been investigated. Possible mechanisms of the formation of nanocrystals during the deformation have been discussed.