Microstructure, Tensile and Creep Properties of Ta(20)Nb(20)Hf(20)Zr(20)Ti(20) High Entropy Alloy

This paper examines the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ta(20)Nb(20)Hf(20)Zr(20)Ti(20). Two casting processes, namely, gravity casting and suction-assisted casting, were applied, both followed by Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP). The aim of the current study was to investigate the creep and tensile properties of the material, since the literature review revealed no data whatsoever regarding these properties. The main findings are that the HIP process is responsible for the appearance of a Hexagonal Close Packed (HCP) phase that is dispersed differently in these two castings. The HIP process also led to a considerable increase in the mechanical properties of both materials under compression, with values found to be higher than those reported in the literature. Contrary to the compression properties, both materials were found to be highly brittle under tension, either during room temperature tension tests or creep tests conducted at 282 °C. Fractography yielded brittle fracture without any evidence of plastic deformation prior to fracture.