An abnormal correlation between electron work function and corrosion resistance in Ti-Zr-Be-(Ni/Fe) metallic glasses

•Electron characteristics have a significant impact on corrosion behavior of MGs.•Lower EWFs of the Ti-based BMG lead to superior corrosion resistance.•Low EWFs could facilitate the formation of highly protective passive film.•XPS reveals the transition from native oxide film to chemical-adaptive passive film.•Heterogeneous distribution of EWF deteriorating corrosion resistance of BMGs.