Zr-based bulk metallic glasses in PBF-LB/M: near-polished surface quality in the as-built state

Abstract This study investigates the relationship between varying contour scanning parameters and their impact on both surface characteristics and mechanical performance of the glass-forming Zr 59.3 Cu 28.8 Al 10.4 Nb 1.5 produced via PBF-LB/M. Near-polished surface states with R a values below 1 µm were achieved. The study identifies increased laser power as a key factor in reducing the surface roughness, while repetitive scanning exhibits only marginal improvements in surface quality. Partial crystallization on the surface of the amorphous samples is found on the as-built surfaces. However, it appears to be confined to depths below 50 µm. Impressively, the material showcases large mechanical strength in the as-built condition, evidenced by a high flexural strength of 2.2 GPa combined with approximately 1% plastic deformation. These findings offer initial insights into optimizing additive manufacturing processes for BMGs, guiding the enhancement of both surface quality and mechanical robustness in Zr-based metallic glass fabricated via PBF-LB/M techniques.