A microscopic continuum model for defect dynamics in metallic glasses

Motivated by results of the topological theory of glasses accounting for geometric frustration, we develop the simplest possible continuum mechanical model of defect dynamics in metallic glasses that accounts for topological, energetic, and kinetic ideas. A geometrical description of ingredients of the structure of metallic glasses using the concept of local order based on Frank-Kasper phases and the notion of disclinations as topological defects in these structures is proposed. This novel kinematics is incorporated in a continuum mechanical framework capable of describing the interactions of disclinations and also of dislocations (interpreted as pairs of opposite disclinations). The model is aimed towards the development of a microscopic understanding of the plasticity of such materials. We discuss the expected predictive capabilities of the model vis-a-vis some observed physical behaviors of metallic glasses.