Microstructure and property of AlTiCrFeNiCu high-entropy alloy

In this study, an AlTiCrFeNiCu high entropy alloy (HEA) was synthesized by vacuum arc furnace in high-purity argon atmosphere. The heat resistance of this HEA was investigated by using a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and a chamber type electric resistance furnace. The results showed that the microstructure of the as cast HEA treated at 500 degrees C was almost unchanged, which consisted of two kinds of BCC solid solution phases and small amount Fe2Ti. The hardness of AlTiCrFeNiCu HEA increased with treating temperature to a maximum value at 950 degrees C. It is found that, the content of Cu, Ni and Al decreased badly in the surface of as cast AlTiCrFeNiCu after immersed in the water solution of 5% HCl for 7 days. The compressive fracture strength of as cast AlTiCrFeNiCu HEA was 1219 MPa. The high compressive strength may owe to the solid solution strengthening from multi elements. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.