Orientation dependence of the deformation behaviors of multilayered Cu/CuZr coating

In multilayered crystalline/amorphous structures, improving deformation capacity hinges on how effectively the crystalline layer inhibits main shear band formation in the amorphous layer. Here, we propose utilizing crystalline layers with varying deformation capabilities, controlled via crystallographic orientation, to coordinate amorphous layer deformation. Without altering the deposition parameters, we fabricated two types of crystalline Cu/amorphous CuZr nanocomposites with distinct textures by using differently oriented substrates, followed by micropillar compression tests. (200)-textured samples exhibited higher strength without softening. The (200)-textured Cu and CuZr layers showed stronger coupling, and the Cu layer’s higher hardening capacity facilitated multiple shear bands in the CuZr layer, enhancing plasticity. In contrast, (111)-textured samples exhibited catastrophic shear localization. In addition, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations confirmed these findings and revealed the underlying deformation mechanisms. This study provides a new strategy for improving the mechanical performance of crystalline/amorphous composites.