Rapid precipitation of L1₂ phase in Al_0.5CoCrFeNi high-entropy alloy under electropulsing

A new strategy for the rapid precipitation (1.8 s) of L1₂ nanoprecipitates in Al_0.5CoCrFeNi high-entropy alloys by electropulsing treatment (EPT) has recently been discovered. The coherent L1₂ phase was introduced under high temperatures by EPT, and this result broke the previous understanding that it needs to be aged for a long time at low temperatures. The formation of the L1₂ precipitates was mainly attributed to the combination of thermal and athermal effects during EPT. This work provides insights into the rapid regulation of multiphase (FCC + B2 + L1₂) and dislocation combinations in high-entropy alloys to optimize strength and ductility. During electropulsing treatment, the coherent L1₂ phase was introduced quickly in Al_0.5CoCrFeNi high-entropy alloys, achieving a better combination of strength and ductility beyond the region of HT.