This study investigates the influence of aluminum addition on the mechanical properties and internal structural evolution of Cu-Zr metallic glasses. The addition of Al, up to 20 %, was found to significantly enhance plastic deformation capabilities by reducing shear band localization and promoting a more homogeneous distribution of elastic modulus. The structural heterogeneity reduced from 38 % to 18.6 %, while a decrease in elastic modulus heterogeneity from 27 % to 15.2 % were observed, with increasing Al content. Voronoi polyhedra analysis revealed a substantial increase in < 0 0 12 0 > configurations, with their proportion rising from 2.68 % at 0 % Al content to 8.67 % at 20 % Al content, representing a 224 % increase and highlighting Al’s role in enhancing structural uniformity and reducing local stress concentrations. These improvements resulted in enhanced ductility and stability, addressing a critical limitation in the mechanical performance of metallic glasses. This work provides valuable insights into optimizing metallic glass compositions for improved mechanical performance, offering a promising foundation for future materials design aimed at diverse industrial applications.

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