Non-crystalline Metals
Metals usually exist in a crystalline state, meaning they display crystal lattice structure and periodic arrangements of atoms. Non-crystalline metals, on the other hand, are composed of atoms arranged in a void, continuous and disorderly fashion. Examples of non-crystalline metals include amorphous metals, bulk metallic glasses (BMG) and nanoglass.
Amorphous metals are composed of an amorphous (non-crystalline) metallic alloy whose atoms are arranged randomly without the formation of a regular crystal lattice structure. They are typically made from metals such as cobalt, nickel, iron and titanium with up to 15 elements. These materials have excellent physical and mechanical properties compared to crystalline metals, such as greater strength, flexibility and corrosion resistance. These properties, in addition to their unique manufacturing process, make them ideal for use in a wide range of applications, from aerospace and automotive components to medical implants.
Bulk metallic glasses, also known as BMGs, are another non-crystalline state of metallic alloys. They consist of elements such as iron, cobalt, nickel, aluminum and zinc with a glass-like atomic structure. BMGs have many attractive properties, such as high hardness, excellent corrosion resistance and good ductility. They also have one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios of any material. These characteristics make BMGs a popular choice for applications that require high strength and lightweight components, such as medical implants and drilling tools.
Nanoglass, also known as nano-crystalline glass, is a non-crystalline state of metallic glass, which is formed from a mixture of aluminum and iron. It was first created in 1979, but has since been improved upon. Nanoglass has many desirable properties, including high thermal and electrical conductivities, high corrosion resistance, good strength and hardness, superior fatigue and wear resistance, and good mechanical properties. This material is widely used in aerospace, automotive, medical and electronics applications.
Non-crystalline metals have a variety of properties, applications and processing techniques. They are incredibly mesmerizing materials in their ability to combine the benefits of both metals and glass. While they are relatively new to the materials world, their unique properties and potential for a wide range of uses make them a promising technology for the future.
