Evolution of the structure of amorphous alloys

This review addresses the current state of research on how amorphous alloys or metallic glasses evolve structurally from the initial amorphous to the final completely crystalline state. Structure transformations under heating, deformation, or irradiation conditions are considered. Particular attention is given to pre-crystallization processes. The stratification of a uniform amorphous phase into regions different in composition and/or in the type of short range order is described. The possibility is examined of whether completely or partially crystallized samples (single-phase, multi-phase, nanocrystalline, or those with surface-to-bulk difference) may have their structures modified to produce the required physical properties.