Mechanical behavior of emerging materials

Nanocrystalline and glassy materials, especially the bulk metallic glasses are of relatively recent origin and exhibit high strength, but lack sufficient plasticity. A clear understanding of the mechanical behavior of these novel materials is essential before these can be seriously considered for structural applications. A great deal of research has been conducted over the past couple of decades and a vast amount of data has been generated. Here, results on strength, ductility, and deformation behavior of these novel materials have been reviewed. Recent results have been highlighted and problems, wherever they exist, have been pointed out. New directions for enhancing the understanding of the mechanical behavior of these interesting materials have been suggested.