Remarkable enhancement of the corrosive-wear resistance for Ti-Zr-Hf-Nb-Fe high-entropy alloys by a facile high-temperature oxidation treatment

The surface performances of TiZrHfNbFe refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) were improved by a facile oxidation treatment at 1000 °C. Results indicated that the anomalous retarded oxidation behavior of the RHEA enabled the formation of a dense and robust oxide layer, demonstrating superior wear and corrosion resistance. The oxidation resistance of the RHEA was related to the development of Ti2ZrO6 on the surface and acicular HfO2 in the inner oxide layer. Additionally, the oxidation mechanism of the RHEA was elucidated, based on principles of oxidation thermodynamics and kinetics, providing foundations for applications as implant materials. •The TiZrHfNbFe RHEA exhibited a relative reduced oxidation rate at 1000 ℃.•The retarded oxidation enabled the formation of a dense oxide layer on the RHEA.•The oxidation resistance of the RHEA was related to the development of Ti2ZrO6 on the surface.•The acicular HfO2 in the inner oxide layer deteriorated the antioxidant capability.•The oxidation enhances the wear and corrosion resistance of the RHEA.