Preparation of CoCrFeNi High-Entropy Alloy via Electro-Deoxidation of Metal Oxides

Abstract

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) have attracted extensive attention due to their excellent properties for various applications. In this work, single-phase equiatomic CoCrFeNi high-entropy alloy (HEA) was prepared by one-step electrolysis of solid oxides in molten CaCl2 at 900 °C and the cathodic reduction mechanism is discussed. The effect of solid oxides porosity on the current efficiency was investigated using X-ray diffractograms and oxygen/nitrogen/hydrogen analyzer. Varying the porosity of solid oxides, the CoCrFeNi HEAs ranging from powders to solid block could be prepared which provides a possibility for additive manufacturing. The aim of the current study is to highlight the versatility of a simple electrochemical method for HEAs preparation in a straightforward, low-energy, and cost-affordable process.