Structure and mechanical properties of a light-weight AlNbTiV high entropy alloy

The crystal structure, microstructure, density, microhardness and mechanical properties of new AlNbTiV high entropy alloy were examined. The alloy had coarse-grained single bcc phase structure with density of 5.59gcm−3 and hardness of 4315–4394MPa. The compressive yield strength of the alloy gradually decreased from 1020MPa at room temperature to 685MPa at 800°C, and then dropped to 158MPa at 1000°C. Specific yield strength of the alloy was found to be comparable with strength of multiphase refractory high entropy alloys. Effect of chemical composition on mechanical properties and potential ways to optimize composition are discussed. •Novel AlNbTiV alloy was prepared by vacuum arc melting.•The AlNbTiV alloy has single bcc phase structure.•The AlNbTiV alloy has low density of 5.59gcm−3.•The alloy has high compressive strength at temperatures below 1000°C.