Optimization of tensile properties of a hierarchical structured TiZrAlV alloy by proton irradiation

Abstract The irradiation of high-energy particles always leads to the deterioration of mechanical properties of materials. Here, we report an abnormal proton irradiation-induced optimization of tensile properties, i.e. an obviously enhanced ductility with a slight decrease of strength, of a hierarchical structured TiZrAlV alloy. The optimization of tensile properties can be attributed to the lattice relaxation caused by irradiation, and the suppressed formation of vacancy clusters in the sample.