A critical review on temperature dependent irradiation response of high entropy alloys

Abstract

This article reviews the recent development in the understanding of the design parameters as well as mechanical properties and the radiation stability-based classification of the single-phase high entropy alloys (HEAs). Because of their excellent radiation tolerance, HEAs are proposed as the potential candidate for their application as a structural material in generation-IV nuclear reactors, where harsh environmental condition prevails. Theoretical calculation and experimental studies suggest that phase-stability and elemental distribution in the solid solution depend on the binary enthalpy of mixing, atomic size, electronegativity and magnetic nature of the elements. Energetic heavy ion irradiation investigations on the HEAs confirmed that the composition, chemical nature, number and size of alloying elements play an important role to determine their response to irradiation. Furthermore, irradiation stability at elevated temperatures also depends upon the incorporation of elements like Pd and Al in the solid solution. Phase stability, radiation-induced segregation (RIS) and bubble formation in HEAs are affected by both the irradiation temperature as well as the types of alloys and their microstructure. Finally, the improvement in structural stability in a high-temperature radiation environment and their applicability as structural materials in the nuclear reactor system have been reviewed.