| abstract |
A method for fabricating metal glasses in bulk form uses electrodeposition. Careful control is maintained of: (i) bath chemistry, (ii) deposition temperature; and (iii) electrical plating conditions, such as the current density, for an extended period of time, such as six hours. Composition of electrodeposition liquid is closely controlled, and adjusted when it differs from desired. Monitoring can be active, as by spectrophotometric analysis, or by comparison of time to a calibration table. A dissolving anode can replenish depleted components. Temperature of the liquid is typically maintained within ±2° C. Object composition can be, but is not limited to: Nickel (Ni) and Tungsten (W); Iron (Fe) and Molybdenum (Mo); Iron (Fe) and Tungsten (W); Nickel (Ni) and Molybdenum (Mo); Nickel (Ni) and Phosphorous (P); Nickel (Ni), Tungsten (W) and Boron (B); Iron (Fe), Nickel (Ni) and Carbon (C); Iron (Fe), Chromium (Cr), Phosphorous (P) and Carbon (C); Cobalt (Co) and Tungsten (W); Chromium (Cr) and Phosphorous (P); Copper (Cu) and Silver (Ag); Copper (Cu) and Zinc (Zn); Cobalt (Co) and Zinc (Zn). Metal glass bulk objects can be electroformed from elements that can not be cast, either due to excessively high melting temperatures, or less than perfect miscibility. Metal glass objects can be unitary, or may include a core of another material. Electrodeposition liquid may be aqueous, alcohol, hydrogen chloride, or metal salt. Useful metal glass objects include but are not limited to at least a portion of: a golf club head; a racquet head, for instance a tennis or squash racquet head; a snowboard; a ski edge; knife blade cutting edge; and many different types of springs. |