Strain hardening of an amorphous matrix composite due to deformation-induced nanocrystallization during quasistatic compression

Abstract

Some amorphous matrix composites reinforced with micron-sized crystalline phases exhibited strengthening behaviors during quasistatic compression. Homogeneous precipitation of nanocrystallites from the amorphous matrix is believed to be responsible for the observed strengthening phenomenon. According to a molecular dynamics simulation, quasistatic deformation can indeed promote the homogeneous precipitation of nanocrystallites, which, in turn, can serve as a reinforcing phase. Based on findings in this study, a strengthening mechanism operative in the amorphous matrix composite is proposed. (C) 2004 American Institute of Physics.