High Entropy Materials

High Entropy Materials (HEMs) refer to a class of materials that are characterized by the presence of a high number of principal alloying elements, typically five or more, in near-equal proportions. This multi-component design leads to a high configurational entropy, which stabilizes a single-phase solid solution at high temperatures. The unique composition of HEMs gives rise to a range of beneficial properties, including enhanced strength, improved thermal stability, and resistance to oxidation and corrosion. These materials can be metallic, ceramic, or a combination of both, and are of significant interest in various applications, including aerospace, automotive, and energy systems, due to their potential for improved performance under extreme conditions. The discovery and development of HEMs represent a new paradigm in materials science, shifting from traditional alloy designs that typically focus on a few primary elements toward a more complex and versatile approach.