A review of research on high-entropy alloys, its properties, methods of creation and application

OBRABOTKAMETALLOV MATERIAL SCIENCE Vol. 26 No. 4 2024 HEAs were proposed and studied in the early 2000s by a group of scientists led by Professor J. W. Yeh from the National Tsing Hua University in Taiwan. They published their research fi ndings in journals in 2004 [1]. HEAs represent a class of materials where fi ve or more distinct elements are mixed in equal or nearequal proportions [2]. This allows for the formation of new types of crystal structures and phases, including unconventional crystalline structures, amorphous regions, and other forms of atomic organization, which may exhibit unique properties. Modern research shows that high-entropy alloys can form structures and phases that have not previously been discovered or well-studied, expanding traditional ideas about the capabilities of this class of materials. The fi rst HEAs were created by melting and mixing elements in appropriate proportions, followed by cooling the resulting melt to obtain an alloy. This process distinguishes these materials from traditional alloys, where typically one or two primary elements dominate. HEAs are characterized by high confi gurational entropy of atoms, resulting from the even distribution of fi ve or more distinct elements in its structure. Although it was once thought that the formation of a singlephase structure and equal presence of elements are mandatory conditions, the modern concept of highentropy alloys continues to evolve. The introduction of elements in equal proportions and the formation of a single-phase structure are no longer considered strict requirements, opening up new opportunities for further research in this fi eld. Alloys can exhibit remarkable mechanical properties, such as high strength, hardness, and wear resistance, making it useful for developing lightweight yet strong materials for aviation, automotive, and other industries. Some HEAs are resistant to aggressive environments, making it suitable for applications where materials need to retain its properties over extended periods. Due to its composite nature, HEAs can also be more accessible and cost-eff ective to produce compared to traditional alloys. Over the past few decades, interest in alloys developed based on the entropy approach has grown signifi cantly, driven by the potential of HEAs. Abroad, the idea of high-entropy alloys was proposed in the early 2000s. In Russia, research into high-entropy alloys began a little later. The fi rst publications and studies by Russian scientists in this fi eld appeared in the late 2000s and early 2010s. By 2010, Russian researchers were already actively engaged in studying HEAs, publishing papers, and participating in international conferences. Researchers are particularly interested in the potential to discover properties in metals that are not typically found in conventional materials. This could include new forms of magnetic properties, electrical conductivity, superplasticity, unique stability at high temperatures, and other characteristics that not only overcome the limitations of traditional materials but also open doors to creating entirely new technologies and innovative applications. These discoveries may be the key to developing more effi cient and advanced materials for use in a wide range of industries, from energy to medicine. However, it is important to note that research on high-entropy alloys is still in its early stages, and further investigation and development are required to fully realize its potential and determine specifi c areas of application. The purpose of this work is to review the latest advancements in HEAs, its properties, methods of fabrication, and applications, as well as to identify the most promising directions for further research. Research objectives: 1) to review modern methods of obtaining HEAs; 2) to study the infl uence of alloying elements on the properties of HEAs; 3) to evaluate the properties of coatings based on HEAs; 4) to study the corrosion resistance of HEAs; 5) to study the heat resistance of HEAs; 6) to study the strength and plastic properties of HEAs; 7) to study the electrical conductivity and magnetic properties of HEAs; 8) to determine promising areas of application of HEAs.

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