Pushing the limits of magnetocaloric high-entropy alloys

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) have become a topic of high research interest due to the excellent mechanical properties that can be found in this new type of materials. However, their functional properties are usually modest when compared to conventional materials. The discovery of high-entropy alloys with an optimal combination of mechanical and functional properties would be a leap forward in the reliability of devices that use them as functional elements. This Research Update focuses on magnetocaloric HEAs, showing that a directed search strategy allows us to improve their performance in a significant way, closing the pre-existing gap between magnetocaloric HEAs and high-performance magnetocaloric materials. Further challenges that remain in this line of research are highlighted.

Automated summary

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) have drawn significant research interest for their excellent mechanical properties, but their functional properties are usually modest compared to traditional materials. This Research Update highlights the potential of a directed search strategy in improving the performance of magnetocaloric HEAs, bridging the gap between them and high-performance magnetocaloric materials. Ongoing challenges in this field are also emphasized.