Oxidation Properties of Additively Manufactured High Entropy Alloys: A Short Review

Abstract

High entropy alloys (HEAs) challenge conventional alloy design by incorporating five or more principal elements in near-equal atomic proportions, forming random solid solutions with simple phases. HEAs exhibit exceptional properties such as high phase stability, mechanical strength, corrosion, oxidation, wear, fatigue resistance, and notable thermal stability. While traditional methods like arc melting and casting are often used for HEA preparation, they pose limitations due to cost and processing challenges. Additive manufacturing has emerged as a transformative technique, enabling the cost-effective fabrication of complex structures with customized properties. Here, we summarized the following “state-of-the-art” additively manufactured alloy systems: AlCrCoNiX (X = Fe, Si, Ti, etc.) HEAs, CoCrFeMnNi HEAs, and refractory HEAs. This review focused on elucidating their oxidation properties, emphasizing key findings, challenges, and opportunities. It also discussed the potential strategies for enhancing oxidation resistance. Additionally, it highlighted research gaps and underscored the urgent need for further exploration to meet the demands for high-temperature applications.