A single-phase V0.5Nb0.5ZrTi refractory high-entropy alloy with outstanding tensile properties

A ductile V0.5Nb0.5ZrTi refractory high-entropy alloy (RHEA) with relatively low density (~6 g/cm−3) is investigated, designed by controlling its valence electron concentration. The homogenized alloy exhibits a stable BCC structure, significant work hardening rate and considerable tensile stress (787 MPa) and elongation (21.9%). The solid-solution strengthening effect is estimated to be ~575 MPa by simplifying into a pseudo-binary alloy, which is in accordance with the test results. These findings can inspire a new strategy to design RHEA with a balanced matching of strength and ductility.