Temperature tuning of structural and mechanical properties of high-entropy carbides

This proposal focuses on the study of High Entropy Carbides (HECs), a class of advanced ceramics with expected unique properties under high-temperature (HT) conditions. Six HECs with five equimolar transition metals from IVB (Ti, Zr, Hf) and VB (V, Nb, Ta) groups will be investigated using High-Resolution Powder X-Ray Diffraction, up to 1600 ºC. The research aims to assess HECs stability, phase transformations, phase segregations, and crystalline structure distortions. It will leverage synchrotron radiation techniques to provide critical insights on the behaviour of HECs under harsh conditions, advancing their applicability in various industries. Specifically, these findings may have implications for nuclear fusion reactors as Plasma Facing Materials (PFMs) due to their HT stability and radiation resistance. In addition, the results give us information for the HECs potential significant applications as Thermal Barrier Coatings (TBCs) in the aerospace and solar power plant industries.