Achieving outstanding strength–ductility synergy from cryogenic to elevated temperatures in L12-strengthened Fe-based medium-entropy alloy
摘要
The development of cost-effective, strong, and ductile alloys for various temperatures is crucial but challenging for the modern industry. In this study, we designed a series of novel L12-strengthened (Fe58.98Ni31.7Al6Ti3Zr0.1C0.2B0.02)100−xCrx (x = 0, 4, 8, and 13 at%) Fe-based medium-entropy alloys (MEAs). The alloy with 8% Cr content demonstrated optimal mechanical properties from −196°C to 700°C, outperforming numerous MEAs and austenitic stainless steels. At 25°C, it exhibited a yield strength and elongation of ∼843 MPa and 23%, respectively. Both strength and ductility improved as the temperature decreased from 25°C to −196°C. The excellent mechanical properties at 25°C are attributed to the synergistic effects of L12 nanoprecipitates, dislocations, slip bands, and stacking faults. In the sample deformed at −196°C, Lomer-Cottrell locks were also observed. Furthermore, at 700°C, the MEA maintains a high yield strength of ∼766 MPa and elongations of 26%, which is attributed to the shearing of L12 precipitate and dislocation slips. This study provides a foundation for developing advanced alloys for use across a wide temperature range.