Enhanced corrosion resistance and mechanical properties of eutectic high-entropy alloys via Nb and Mo additions
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: In the present study, a series of novel eutectic high-entropy alloys (EHEAs) was designed by incorporating Nb and Mo, and the effects of these additions on microstructural evolution, mechanical behavior, and corrosion resistance were systematically investigated. Compared with the original EHEA (Ni 43.9 Co 17 Fe 12 Cr 9 Al 18 B 0.1 , at.%), the addition of 2 at.% Nb notably enhanced tensile properties, achieving a yield strength of 0.93 GPa, an ultimate tensile strength of 1.62 GPa, and a ductility of 22%, and slightly improved corrosion resistance. Meanwhile, the incorporation of 2 at.% Mo not only enhanced mechanical properties but also significantly improved the pitting resistance, with the pitting potential increasing to approximately 500 mV vs SCE. XPS analysis revealed that Mo addition facilitated the enrichment of Cr 2 O 3 and Mo oxides within the passive film, increasing its stability and protectiveness, thus enhancing the alloy’s resistance to chloride attacks. The present results demonstrate a clear functional differentiation between Nb and Mo additions in EHEAs, where Nb mainly contributes to mechanical strengthening, while Mo predominantly enhances localized corrosion resistance. These findings provide new insights and clarify the mechanisms into the element-specific design strategy for achieving balanced mechanical and corrosion properties in advanced EHEAs.
Source: Corrosion Communications
Authors: Y.Y. Su, J.Y. Zhang, Y.H. Zhou, T.H. Chou, Y.L. Zhao, T. Yang
Language: English
Topic: High Entropy Alloys Studies
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,800
OpenAlex ID: W7167575170