Effects of minor-alloying on plasticity in metallic glasses: correlations with structural heterogeneity

Our results show that medium-range order (MRO) connectivity, not short-range order or flexibility volume, is the dominant structural factor governing strain localization and shear band formation. This establishes MRO as the missing link between atomic-scale structural descriptors and macroscopic mechanical performance. These findings provide quantitative evidence that alloying-induced plasticity in metallic glasses is governed by multiscale structural interactions rather than local motifs alone. By clarifying the distinct roles of Al and Ag in shaping strength and ductility, this work advances a general framework for rationally designing BMGs with improved toughness.