According to Inkwood Research, the global bulk metallic glass market is expected to reach $xx million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 17.65% during the forecast period 2024-2032. Bulk metallic glasses (BMGs), also known as amorphous metals, are characterized as a class of advanced materials with unique properties, including high strength, unparalleled corrosion resilience, and significant wear resistance, among others.
These remarkable characteristics, combined with the versatility of additive manufacturing (AM) processes, are opening up new avenues for industrial applications across various sectors.
The significance of bulk metallic glasses lies in their amorphous atomic structure, which sets them apart from conventional crystalline metals. This non-crystalline structure imparts BMGs with exceptional mechanical properties, making them ideal for applications where high strength-to-weight ratios, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance are critical.
Rising Applications in Allied Sectors: Bulk Metallic Glass Market
One of the driving forces behind the growth of the BMG market is the increasing utilization of these materials across allied industries. As manufacturers seek to develop lighter, stronger, and more durable products, BMGs have emerged as a promising solution.
In this regard, some of the key applications of BMGs include sporting goods, biomedical implants, precision molds and dies, and structural components.
- The aerospace sector, for instance, is actively exploring the use of BMGs for components that require high strength and low weight, such as turbine blades and structural parts.
- Similarly, the biomedical industry is leveraging the corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of BMGs for implants and surgical instruments.
Overcoming Manufacturing Complexities: AM’s Versatility in BMG Production
Traditional manufacturing methods for BMGs often face challenges due to their high cooling rates and complex compositions. However, AM processes like selective laser melting (SLM) and electron beam melting (EBM) have revolutionized the production of BMG components. These techniques allow for precise control over the melting and solidification process, enabling the fabrication of intricate geometries and near-net-shape parts.
According to a recent study, a breakthrough was achieved in the realm of materials science with the successful production of a high-density, crack-free bulk metallic glass (BMG) derived from precious metal composition (PdCuNiP) through additive manufacturing (AM) techniques. Specifically, laser powder-bed fusion (LPBF) was employed to fabricate the samples, resulting in an impressive density of 99.6%.
- This pioneering approach has yielded exceptional mechanical properties, including elevated hardness and compressive strength, effectively surmounting the customary constraints associated with precious metals in jewelry and watchmaking applications.
- Remarkably, the samples exhibited a pristine, mirror-like surface finish straight from the printing process, obviating the need for any additional post-processing steps.
- This development holds immense promise for industries where surface aesthetics and finish are paramount considerations.
Stay up-to-date with what’s trending in the Global Bulk Metallic Glass Market
Moreover, researchers are continuously exploring new alloy compositions and AM techniques to further expand the capabilities of BMG manufacturing. For instance, the development of iron-based BMG alloys has opened up possibilities for more cost-effective and sustainable BMG production.
Additionally, hybrid manufacturing processes that combine AM with traditional subtractive methods are being explored to leverage the strengths of both approaches, as well. These aspects, in turn, are expected to pave the way for significant developments and innovation in the global bulk metallic glass market during the forecast period.
By Shruti
FAQ
BMGs lack the crystalline structure found in traditional metals. Instead, they possess an amorphous, disordered atomic arrangement, granting them unique properties such as high strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and superior elasticity compared to their crystalline counterparts.
BMGs are typically fabricated through rapid cooling techniques, such as melt spinning or gas atomization, to prevent crystallization and retain their amorphous structure. Additionally, advanced manufacturing methods like additive manufacturing (AM) are increasingly being explored to produce complex-shaped BMG components with enhanced properties.