Hierarchical features infused heterogeneous grain structure for extraordinary strength-ductility synergy

A synergistic balance of strength and ductility was achieved in a prototypical fcc-based Al0.3CoCrFeNi complex concentrated alloy by incorporating hierarchical microstructural features into heterogeneous grain structure. Microstructural hierarchy was composed of different morphologies and size-scales of B2 precipitates and nano-twins that were incorporated in parent fcc matrix, which, additionally, was comprised of domains of fine and coarse grains. Strain partitioning between refined and coarse grains produced geometrically necessary dislocations during plastic deformation. This facilitated long-range back stresses during further deformation leading to simultaneous enhancement of strength and ductility. Furthermore, B2 precipitates complemented back stress and increased inherent matrix strength. Architecting hierarchical microstructural features into a heterogeneous grain structured complex concentrated alloy avoided the classic strength-ductility trade-off paradigm.