Changes in the Structure of Amorphous Alloys under Deformation by High-Pressure Torsion and Multiple Rolling

X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy were used to study changes in the structure of amorphous alloys under deformation by high-pressure torsion and multiple rolling. The change in mean nearest neighbor distance (the radius of the first coordination sphere) under deformation was determined. During deformation, shear bands are formed in amorphous alloys, which are regions of lower density compared to the surrounding undeformed amorphous matrix. Shear bands are zones of increased free volume, in which crystallization processes are facilitated. The change in the proportion of free volume under deformation of various types was estimated. The formation of shear bands leads to the appearance of steps on the surface of the samples. The number of shear bands and the surface morphology of deformed amorphous alloys were determined by the type of deformation and the physical properties of the material. The results obtained are discussed within the concept of free volume in the amorphous phase.