Microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of aluminium matrix composites reinforced with CoMoMnNiV high-entropy alloy

In the present study, the Al7075 metal matrix composite was reinforced with different weight percentages (HEA content 0-8 wt%; interval of 2) of CoMoMnNiV high entropy alloy (HEA) was processed by an ultrasonic vibrator-coupled stir casting route. The mechanical alloying technique was employed to prepare high-entropy alloy metallic powder. The developed composite was examined for microstructural and mechanical behaviour. The phase evolution and microstructure of HEA particles and composites were examined by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. An optical microscopic examination was carried out to investigate grain size and reinforcement dispersion over the matrix materials. The mechanical properties of composites improved significantly with HEAp content and attained maximum value for a composite with 6 wt% HEAp content. The hardness and ultimate tensile strength of the 6 wt% HEAp composite improved by 40% and 53%, respectively, as compared with as-cast Al7075 alloy.

Automated summary

In this study, the Al7075 metal matrix composite was reinforced with different weight percentages of CoMoMnNiV high entropy alloy (HEA) using an ultrasonic vibrator-coupled stir casting route. The mechanical properties and microstructural characteristics of the developed composite were examined. The results showed that the hardness and ultimate tensile strength of the composite significantly improved with increasing HEAp content, reaching maximum values at 6 wt% HEAp.