Elastic properties of a Sc–Zr–Nb–Ta–Rh–Pd high-entropy alloy superconductor

Abstract

We report a comprehensive study on the elastic properties of a hexanary high-entropy alloy superconductor (ScZrNbTa)0.685[RhPd]0.315 at room and cryogenic temperatures, by Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy experiments. The derived elastic constants are bulk modulus K = 132.7 GPa, Young’s modulus E = 121.0 GPa, shear modulus G = 44.9 GPa, and Poisson’s ratio ν=0.348 for room temperature. The Young’s and shear moduli are ∼ 10% larger than those in NbTi superconductor with similar Tc, while the ductility is comparable. Moreover, the mechanical performance isfurther enhanced at cryogenic temperature. Our work confirms the advantageous mechanical properties of high-entropy alloy superconductors and suggests the application prospects.