Review on thermal transport and lattice dynamics of high-entropy alloys containing Ni

Abstract

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) including Ni and other 3d transition metals present a unique class of materials characterized by single phase solid solutions in face-centered cubic structure with complicated chemical disorder, in terms of atomic size, mass, and force constants. While they are renowned for excellent mechanical properties in extreme environment, their thermal transport properties are underexplored, despite the importance in relevant applications. This article comprehensively reviews the experimental and theoretical research on thermal transport and lattice dynamics in Ni-based alloys focusing on HEAs, along with fundamental theories for electron and phonon thermal conductivity in metals and alloys. The influence of the disorders is discussed for Ni-based alloys, from binary to quinary, which particularly reveals the importance of the interatomic force constant disorder. Future research is expected to further advance the understanding of interactions between electrons and phonons and microscopic mechanisms of phonon transport, as well as methodologies for extreme environment.