Pressure-induced nanoprecipitation and long-range order in a TiZrTaNbSn biomedical high-entropy alloy

Due to its characteristics of nontoxicity and biocompatibility, the beta-type Ti35Zr25Ta15Nb15Sn10 biomedical high entropy alloy (BHEA) has been studied as an optional advanced biomedical material. However, the strength of the alloy close to the elastic modulus of human bone needs to be further improved. Therefore, we aimed to explore the feasibility of using ultrahigh-pressure methods to regulate the strength of the alloy. In this letter, we briefly summarize high pressure experimental and theoretical findings related to the formation and character-ization of long-range orderings (LRO) and nanoprecipitates as well as their effects on the strengthening behavior of BHEA. We show that the formation of LRO and precipitation of nanoscale Zr5Sn3 under 4 GPa is the key mechanism underlying the optimization of mechanical properties. Finally, enhanced hardness and strength were achieved. This work provides new insights into the microstructure-based strengthening of BHEA and is of sig-nificance for advancing our understanding of the applications of these materials.

Automated summary

Due to its nontoxicity and biocompatibility, the beta-type Ti35Zr25Ta15Nb15Sn10 biomedical high entropy alloy (BHEA) has been studied as an advanced biomedical material. However, the strength of the alloy needs improvement. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the feasibility of using ultrahigh-pressure methods to regulate the strength of the alloy.