Rationality of two-phase coexistence with no element segregation in a CuZr-based amorphous alloy composite

Here, the structure features of Cu62Zr34.4Al3Nb0.6 amorphous alloy composites (AACs) are studied by combining experimental characterization with first-principles calculation. Element segregation, which is common in conventional alloy materials, does not occur in two phases (crystalline and amorphous phase) of the AACs due to complex solid solution. The lattice parameters, electron distribution, charge transfer and electrical potential, which are directly related to atomic bonding and lattice parameters of different structures, are obtained by calculating the various types of structural models, including interstitial solid solution, substitutional solid solution, B2 and amorphous phase. Finally, the formation and stability of solid solution in crystalline phase and amorphous phase are elucidated by first-principles calculation. The work has important guiding significance for understanding the two-phase structure and solidification mechanism in AACs materials.

Automated summary

The structure features of Cu62Zr34.4Al3Nb0.6 amorphous alloy composites (AACs) were studied using experimental characterization and first-principles calculation. Element segregation, a common phenomenon in conventional alloy materials, does not occur in the two phases (crystalline and amorphous) of AACs due to complex solid solution. By calculating different structural models, including interstitial solid solution, substitutional solid solution, B2, and amorphous phase, the lattice parameters, electron distribution, charge transfer, and electrical potential, which are directly related to atomic bonding and lattice parameters, were obtained. Finally, the formation and stability of solid solution in the crystalline and amorphous phases were elucidated using first-principles calculation. This work has important guiding significance for understanding the two-phase structure and solidification mechanism in AACs materials.