Evolution of Structure in AlCoCrFeNi High-Entropy Alloy Irradiated by a Pulsed Electron Beam

High-current pulsed electron-beam (HCPEB) surface modification of Al-Co-Cr-Fe-Ni high-entropy alloy (wt. %) Al—15.64; Co—7.78; Cr—8.87; Fe—22.31; Ni—44.57, fabricated via wire-arc additive manufacturing was studied. The initial condition of the sample is characterized by a highly inhomogeneous distribution of the chemical elements that form the alloy. The alloy samples were irradiated with the different electron beam energy densities of 10, 20 and 30 J/cm2. The surface structure was then analyzed in relation to an energy deposition mode. The study has established that HCPEB induces a high-speed crystallization structure with cells varying in size from 100 to 200 nm. There are nano-dimensional (15–30 nm) second-phase inclusions enriched with atoms of Cr and Fe along the grain boundaries. The most liquating elements are Cr and Al. Electron beam surface modification of the high-entropy alloy induces its homogenization. The study has highlighted that the mode of 20 J/cm2, 50 µs, 3 pulses, 0.3 s−1 results in the formation of a surface layer with the most homogenously distributed chemical elements.