Corrosion resistance enhancement of bulk metallic glass through ultrasonic vibrations

Bulk metallic glass (BMG) possesses a range of desirable properties, including exceptional mechanical, soft magnetic, and catalytic properties, etc. However, to pursuit extensive specific applications, enhancing the corrosion resistance of BMG is required. Herein, an effective method involving ultrasonic vibrations (UV) treatment was proposed to significantly enhance the corrosion resistance of BMG. The self-corrosion potential of UV processed BMG increased by up to 0.14 V in 1 N HCl solution and 0.2 V in 3.5 % NaCl solution, respectively. Additionally, the maximum reduction in corrosion current density for the UV processed BMG in these solutions was 15 % and 20 %, respectively. Micro-morphology results indicated that the UV processed BMG exhibited better pitting resistance. It is found that a denser arrangement of BMG was obtained after UV which resulted in reduced relaxation enthalpy and enhanced corrosion resistance. This work introduces an innovative and convenient method to enhance the corrosion resistance of BMG for engineering applications.