Test sample geometry for fracture toughness measurements of bulk metallic glasses

Abstract The influence of test sample geometry on the fracture toughness measurements of bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) is systematically quantified. Through a combination of thermoplastic forming based toughness measurements and numerical simulations, we investigated the effects of test sample thickness, width, and notch precision on the fracture toughness of BMGs. Considering these findings, together with BMGs' specific fabrication challenges and potential application geometries, we propose that sample geometry to measure fracture toughness of BMGs should be much smaller and practically achievable than suggested by standards for crystalline alloys.