Exploring amorphous alloys: advanced electron microscopy and cluster analysis

In this study, we explored the atomic structure and orderliness of amorphous alloys through advanced electron microscopy and analytical techniques. Amorphous alloys, characterized by disordered atomic structures, exhibit promising applications in technology. The research addresses a crucial knowledge gap by investigating cluster distribution, particle arrangement, and orderliness within the amorphous matrix. High-resolution electron microscopy (HREM) images are analyzed using diverse algorithms and software tools. The study establishes a correlation between angles approaching 180 degrees and increased orderliness within clusters, highlighting the reliability of angle distribution analysis. Robust indicators, including Div (SP(B/V)) and Div (Mu(B/V)) metrics, assess and compare amorphous alloy samples. Kullback–Leibler (K-L) divergence indicates the significance of cluster ordering, validated by the S-K test. Radial Distribution Function (RDF) analysis uncovers local short-range order, deepening understanding despite limited orderliness discernment. These findings not only enhance our understanding of metallic glasses or amorphous alloys but also offer opportunities for tailored design and improved applications across various technological domains.