Effect of Heat Treatment on Microstructure and Aqueous Corrosion Properties of AlCoCrNiFe High Entropy Alloy

Abstract

This study examines the effects of heat treatment on corrosion behavior of equiatomic AlCoCrNiFe high-entropy alloy within a solution treatment temperature range of 800–1100 °C. Experimental observations on phase formation were compared with thermodynamic predictions. The microstructure, mechanical properties, and aqueous corrosion behavior of the as-deposited alloy were analyzed and contrasted with heat-treated samples. The results showed a decline in the corrosion resistance of the AlCoCrNiFe after heat treatment, which was attributed to chemical segregation and Cr depletion in the microstructure matrix. Additionally, post-corrosion analysis revealed a reduced volume fraction of protective oxides in the heat-treated samples.