Linking deformation kinetics to configurational energy in a high entropy metallic glass

Deformation modifies the structure of metallic glasses, driving their configurational state far from equilibrium. In this work, we investigate how deformation kinetics governs this process through the interplay between the input of external mechanical work and intrinsic structural relaxation. Using a Pd₂₀Pt₂₀Cu₂₀Ni₂₀P₂₀high-entropy metallic glass as a model system, we combine high temperature tensile deformation with calorimetric measurements to characterize the structural state reached after homogeneous plastic flow. Increasing strain rate enhances the flow stress and the amount of mechanical work input, whereas slow deformation allows more extensive structural relaxation. The results quantify how strain rate governs the competition between deformation-induced configurational excitation and concurrent relaxation. This determines the threshold strain rate where rejuvenation becomes dominant, enabling precise control over the energy state of amorphous materials near the glass transition.