Metallblank

Metallblank is a class of metallic glass alloys defined as amorphous metal materials produced by rapid quenching of molten alloys. Metallblank alloys typically contain a majority transition metal (such as iron, nickel, or cobalt) combined with metalloids like boron, silicon, phosphorus, or carbon. The composition is tuned to promote glass formation and suppress crystallization.

They are produced by rapid solidification techniques such as melt spinning, copper mold casting, or laser-assisted quenching, and may be further processed by annealing to relieve internal stresses and adjust ductility. Some compositions can be formed into thin ribbons, wires, or bulk glass by controlled cooling.

Metallblank materials exhibit high hardness and wear resistance, with a favorable strength-to-weight ratio. Many variants also show soft magnetic behavior with high permeability and low coercivity, which can be exploited in magnetic components. Depending on the composition, they may offer low thermal expansion and good corrosion resistance, though brittleness at room temperature is a common challenge.

Applications include wear parts, cutting tools, magnetic components, and protective coatings, as well as potential uses in precision optics and aerospace components when processed as coatings or thin films.

The concept of Metallblank arose in the context of metallic-glass research in the late 20th century. The Metallblank designation has appeared in technical literature since the mid-2010s to describe specific grade compositions optimized for mechanical or magnetic performance.

See also: metallic glass; amorphous metal; transformer core material.