A novel as-cast NbTiC2/FeCrNiCu high entropy alloy matrix composite with remarkable tensile properties.

• The NbTiC 2 /FeCrNiCu composite contains a single FCC phase and NbTiC 2 particles. • NbTiC 2 additions can enhance the tensile strength of the alloy up to 1148.8 MPa. • Dislocation strengthening accounts for 89.6% of the strength increase. The high entropy alloy matrix composite FeCrNiCu on the basis of the face-centerd cubic structure and reinforced with 5 vol% NbTiC 2 particles was synthesized by vacuum induction melting. NbTiC 2 particles are found to be densely distributed on the substrate in polygonal shapes. The tensile strength of the NbTiC 2 /FeCrNiCu high entropy alloy matrix increased phenomenally, from 517.5 MPa to 1148.8 MPa. Though the ductility of composite is lower than the matrix, but it still presents an acceptable value of 7.1%. It is found that dislocation strengthening, loading bearing effect and Orowan mechanism are positive for enhancing the tensile properties of the high entropy alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]