Ion irradiation response and mechanical behavior of reduced activity high entropy alloy

Abstract Refractory alloys consisting of reduced activity elements are attractive for nuclear applications to allow safe post-service recycling and meet fusion reactor requirements. Here, ion irradiation response was studied for a newly developed refractory high entropy alloy, HfTaTiVZr, with low activation constituent elements. Ion irradiation led to around 20% hardening for the high entropy alloy compared to 50% hardening for stainless steel under identical conditions. Superior irradiation resistance of the concentrated alloy was explained by the reduced mobility of point defects and self-healing ability.