Plasticity and damage in cellular amorphous metals

Compressive mechanical properties of low-density, open-cell Zr-based bulk metallic glass foams processed by the salt replication method are investigated as a function of relative density and pore size in the ranges 14-28% and 150-355 μm, respectively. Scaling behaviors for strength and stiffness are discussed in the context of models developed for conventional metal foams, and appropriate modifications presented where necessary. Deformation and damage features not addressed by such models are then discussed in terms of the unique conditions allowing ductility in amorphous metal foams. It is shown that despite a small number of brittle uniaxial strut failures, ductile deformation by strut bending predominates in the foams, with the result that all but the densest foam could be compressed to a nominal strain in the vicinity of 80% without macroscopic fracture.