A microscopic continuum model for defect dynamics in metallic glasses

TL;DR

This paper introduces a minimal continuum model for defect dynamics in metallic glasses, integrating topological, energetic, and kinetic concepts to better understand their plasticity.

Contribution

It presents the first simplified continuum framework that combines topological and energetic ideas to model defect behavior in metallic glasses.

Findings

Model captures key physical behaviors of metallic glasses.

Provides insights into defect-driven plasticity.

Suggests potential for predictive simulations.

Abstract

Motivated by results of the topological theory of glasses accounting for geometric frustration, we develop the simplest possible continuum mechanical model of defect dynamics in metallic glasses that accounts for topological, energetic, and kinetic ideas. The model is aimed towards the development of a microscopic understanding of the plasticity of such materials. We discuss the expected predictive capabilities of the model vis-a-vis some observed physical behaviors of metallic glasses.