Traditional metallurgy relies on a single base metal mixed with small amounts of other elements. A high-entropy alloy blends five or more principal elements in near-equal atomic percentages to maximize configurational entropy. This high entropy stabilizes a single-phase solid solution structure, often resulting in exceptional strength, fracture toughness, and resistance to wear or corrosion at extreme temperatures.
We're testing a new high-entropy alloy for the turbine blades to see if it outperforms the standard nickel superalloys at peak temperature.
The defining rule of thumb for an HEA is that no single element exceeds 35 atomic percent of the mix.
Also heard as
- HEA
Related terms
Alloyant
An element or material added to a base metal to modify its physical or chemical properties.
Superalloy
A high-performance metal designed to retain exceptional mechanical strength and resist surface degradation at extreme temperatures.
Duralumin
A historic trade name for a strong, lightweight aluminium alloy containing copper and magnesium.