Twinning-assisted strengthening in a novel high entropy alloy via thermo-mechanical processing

This study investigates the microstructural characteristics and mechanical behavior of a non-equiatomic high entropy alloy subjected to an effective thermo-mechanical processing, which involves rolling at ambient temperature followed by thermal annealing. Microstructural characterizations, including transmission electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction, and X-ray diffraction, reveal a complex dislocation substructure with the presence of annealing twins. Mechanical experiments demonstrate a noteworthy balance of ductility and strength in the post-rolling annealed condition. This favorable mechanical response is attributed to the combined effects of boundary and dislocation strengthening, with contributions from the identified deformation mechanisms predicted in light of the experimental findings.