Influences of alloy composition and scratching depths on the deformation behavior of FeNiCoCrCux high-entropy alloys under nanoindentation and nanoscratch

The influence of alloy composition and scratching depth in terms of mechanical properties and microstructural changes of FeNiCoCrCu high-entropy alloys (HEAs) is investigated and evaluated through nanoindentation and nanoscratch techniques via molecular dynamics (MD). The influence of these factors is analyzed by investigating applied force, atomic shear deformation, microstructural alterations, dislocation behavior, and elastic restoration capacity. It is highlighted that the primary mode of deformation throughout the indentation and scratching of FeNiCoCrCu alloys involves the initiation and spread of dislocations and stacking faults. The forces during indentation and scratching generally rise with decreasing Cu content and increasing scratch depth. Additionally, the displacement of atoms in diverse directions results in distinct pile-up morphologies.