A novel bulk (Nb,Zr,Pt)67Ti33 high-entropy alloy superconductor: synthesis and structure–property relationship

Abstract

We report a novel multi-phase (Nb,Zr,Pt)₆₇Ti₃₃ high-entropy alloy superconductor with a focus on understanding the relationship between its functional properties and microstructure. We studied the effect of different heat treatment conditions such as annealing, quenching and combinatorial processes on the microstructure and, hence, on the properties. Further, an attempt was made to decipher suitable phases from the complex microstructure through an atomistic level experimental study. Combined XRD and TEM analysis provided insights into the causes of formation of these complex phases and their key role in influencing the functional properties of the HEA under different heat treatment conditions. Lastly, critical temperature and critical current density comparable to the reported HEAs under optimized heat treatment conditions were achieved even in the absence of optimized heat treatment conditions.