Friction Stir Processing of a High Entropy Alloy Al0.1CoCrFeNi

Abstract

High entropy alloys are a new class of metallic materials with a potential for use in structural applications. However, most of the studies have focused on microhardness and compressive strength measurements for mechanical properties determination. This study presents the tensile deformation behavior of a single-phase, face-centered cubic Al0.1CoCrFeNi high entropy alloy (HEA). Friction stir processing was carried out to refine the grain size. Scanning electron microscopy and electron backscatter diffraction were carried out for microstructural examination. The grain size of the alloy was on the order of millimeters in the as-received condition. The average grain size after friction stir processing of the alloy was 14 ± 10 micrometers. The mechanical properties were determined through microhardness measurement and mini-tensile tests. The friction stir processed alloy showed a total elongation of ~75% for the mini-tensile sample used and yield strength of 315 MPa. It is an exceptional combination of strength and ductility. Friction stress was determined to be 174 MPa and the Hall–Petch coefficient was 371 MPa (µm)1/2. Such a high value of Hall–Petch coefficient suggests that grain boundary strengthening can be a very effective strengthening mechanism for the HEA Al0.1CoCrFeNi.