Processing and mechanical properties of fine grained Al matrix composites reinforced with a uniform dispersion of nanocrystalline high-entropy alloy particles

Novel fine grained Al matrix composites reinforced by nanocrystalline high-entropy alloy particles (NC-HEA(p)) were successfully prepared by combining ball milling, hot pressing, hot extrusion and heat treatment. It was found that the average particle size of NC-HEA(p) significantly decreased after the milling, and NC-HEA(p) showed a uniform particle distribution in the hot extruded Al matrix composites. The NC-HEA(p) showed good thermal stability in the processing procedures. Microstructure and tensile tests revealed that the NC-HEA(p) are good candidates as the reinforcements in Al matrix composites. (C) 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.