NbMoVTa refractory high-entropy alloy incorporated WNi matrix composite as a future plasma-facing material: Evaluation of mechanical properties and helium ion irradiation behavior

Refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) have gained attention in the last decades with their high mechanical strength, self-healing mechanism, and high irradiation resistance. These materials are evaluated to have a high potential as plasma-facing materials for fusion reactors. In this study, helium ion irradiation and mechanical behaviors of the RHEA-reinforced WNi matrix composites were investigated based on this perspective. Equimolar molybdenum, niobium, tantalum and vanadium powders were mechanically alloyed for 6 h to produce NbMoVTa RHEA with a single BCC phase. Then, different amounts (10, 20, 30, and 40 wt%) of RHEA were added into the W1Ni (containing 99 wt% W and 1 wt% Ni) matrix by planetary ball milling for 72 h. Consolidation was conducted by spark plasma sintering technique (1410 °C, 1 min). X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersion spectroscopy, and Archimedes' density analyses were performed on the composites. Moreover, wear and hardness properties of the composites were examined, and the lowest specific wear rate (0.59 mm³/N.m × 10⁻⁵) and the highest hardness value (10.10 GPa) were found for the W1Ni-40RHEA composite. Helium irradiation was exposed to the composites to observe their irradiation resistance. It was observed that the lowest increment and the least deformation were obtained with the SPS'ed W1Ni-40RHEA composite. With the analysis of He⁺ irradiation, it was determined that the effect of radiation on mechanical properties is irrelevant. Also, it was observed that the addition of RHEA into the W matrix can create a high potential for using plasma-facing material. Moreover, it decreased the problems of tungsten against He⁺ irradiation.