Electric pulse 3D printing of metallic glass ribbons

• Components of various geometries were fabricated from MGRs by this EPPAM. • The amorphous structure is maintained in the samples formed by this EPPAM. • This EPPAM process does not require harsh atmospheric condition and high pressure. • EPPAM (Electric-pulse powered additive manufacturing); MGR (Metallic glass ribbon). This paper presents an electric-pulse powered additive manufacturing (EPPAM) of metallic glass ribbons, which can be implemented under lower pressure. By this method, Fe 73.5 Cu 1 Nb 3 Si 13.5 B 9 amorphous ribbons, 25 μm thick, can be formed into various geometries. The formed samples were put to a series of tests and measurement, including X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and transmission electron microscopy. The results and analyses indicate that a good amorphous structure is retained and a high tensile strength is achieved in the bonding part. Without needing crucial atmospheric conditions, such as vacuum or inert gas, this EPPAM can be applied to 3D printing of special-shaped amorphous components, e.g., those used in electromagnetic shielding devices.