Microstructural strengthening and mechanical performance of Ti-bearing Al5Cr12Fe35Mn28Ni20 high-entropy alloy

Abstract

In the present study, non-equiatomic AlCrFeMn x−TiNi high-entropy alloys bearing cost-effective elements were developed in light of enhancing mechanical strength. The Al5Cr12Fe35Mn28Ni20 HEA was used as a reference. However, the HEA containing Ti (Ti-HEA) was designed with a composition of Al5Cr12Fe35Mn23Ni20Ti5. The microstructural characteristics were studied by X-ray diffraction, electron probe micro-analysis, and electron backscattering diffraction. Subsequently, the mechanical properties were determined using micro-hardness, tensile and compression tests. Whereas the Ti-free HEA displayed a single FCC structure, a multi-phase structure was observed in the Ti-HEA. The mechanical tests showed that the Ti element significantly enhanced the strength. The strengthening effect was more intense during compression loading as the Ti-HEA exhibited superior combination of compressive strength and ductility (2.35GPa at 50% strain without fracture).