Dynamic mechanical behaviors and energy release mechanisms of energetic high-entropy alloys

• The classification and application potential of high-entropy alloys (HEAs) as energetic structural materials (ESMs) were summarized and analyzed. • The energy release mechanism of energetic high-entropy alloys (EHEAs) was discussed by combining the microstructure, dynamic deformation mechanism and fragmentation theory. • The mechanical constitutive models and failure models describing the mechanical behavior of EHEAs were summarized. • The design criteria for energetic high-entropy alloys with excellent properties were analyzed. Energetic high-entropy alloys (EHEAs) synergistically combine the superior mechanical properties of high-entropy alloys with significant energy release capabilities under dynamic loading, showcasing broader application scenarios than brittle conventional energetic structural materials. This review comprehensively examines recent advances in understanding the dynamic mechanical behaviors and fragmentation-induced energy release mechanisms of EHEAs. EHEAs are categorized based on composition: refractory-element-based, refractory-lightweight-element-based, and refractory-post-transition-element-based systems. Dynamic deformation mechanisms (e.g., dislocation motion, adiabatic shearing, phase transformation and twinning), together with constitutive models describing high-strain-rate plastic flow, are analyzed in relation to composition and microstructure. Strategies to suppress detrimental adiabatic shear banding and enhance strain hardening—such as nano-precipitate engineering and stress-induced phase transitions—are highlighted. Challenges in composition design, in-situ reaction characterization, and integrated fragmentation-combustion modeling are outlined, providing critical insights for future research aimed at optimizing EHEAs for advanced structural energetic applications.