Modification of Cantor High Entropy Alloy by the Addition of Mo and Nb: Microstructure Evaluation, Nanoindentation-Based Mechanical Properties, and Sliding Wear Response Assessment

The classic Cantor (FeCoCrMnNi) isoatomic high entropy alloy was modified by separate additions of Mo and Nb in an effort to optimize its mechanical properties sliding wear response. It found that the introduction single phase FCC solid solution structure original led formation new phases such as BCC solution, ?-phase, Laves, along with possible existence intermetallic phases. overall sequence approached parametric model assessment solidification considerations. Nanoindentation-based property evaluation showed due Nb; modulus elasticity microhardness were increased. Creep nanoindentation revealed beneficial action increasing creep resistance based on stress sensitivity exponent, strain rate sensitivity, critical volume for dislocation nucleation power law breakdown identified main deformation mechanisms. Finally, response increased addition this behavior obeying Archard’s law. A correlation between microstructure, track morphologies, debris characteristics also attempted.