TAGRA 2024

This study explores the synthesis, powder characteristics, and mechanical properties of an AlCrCo medium entropy alloy (MEA) fabricated via mechanical alloying (MA). Elemental powders of Al, Cr, and Co in equiatomic proportions were subjected to high-energy ball milling to achieve a homogeneous alloy. The evolution of phase formation, crystallite size, and particle morphology during milling was analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was employed to investigate the thermal stability and phase transformation behavior of the alloy. The milled powders were consolidated through hot pressing to produce dense bulk samples, which were subsequently characterized for microstructural homogeneity, hardness, and compressive strength. The results demonstrated the formation of a single-phase BCC structure with fine grains and excellent mechanical properties, including high hardness and strength, primarily due to grain refinement and solid solution strengthening. This study underscores the potential of AlCrCo MEAs for lightweight structural applications, offering a balance between strength and thermal stability.