Near-ideal strength and large compressive deformability of a nano-dual-phase glass-crystal alloy in sub-micron

We report a room temperature ultrahigh yield strength (3.0 GPa in compression) and large deformability (above 50% compressive strain) of a magnesium-based nano-dual-phase glass-crystal alloy in sub-micro size, compared with brittle nature of its own structural units. Transmission electron microscope investigation, molecular dynamic simulation and constitutive modeling were conducted, showing that the nanostructure of extremely small sized nanocrystals embedded in the glassy shells results in near-ideal strength; plastic flow of the glassy phase and grain refinement of the crystalline phase contribute to the large deformability. This material design may provide broad implications in wearable flexible devices and high-performance nano-electromechanical systems.