Thermodynamics of Bulk Metallic Glasses

Thermodynamics of bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) involves understanding how their atoms arrange and behave energetically. Unlike crystalline metals with ordered structures, BMGs lack long-range order, resulting from rapid cooling that prevents crystals from forming. This creates a thermodynamic state where the material's free energy is minimized without forming a regular crystal lattice, leading to unique properties like high strength and elasticity. The stability and amorphous nature depend on thermodynamic factors such as enthalpy and entropy, which determine whether the glass remains stable or crystallizes over time. Understanding these principles helps in designing and utilizing BMGs for advanced applications.