Synthesis and high-temperature properties of medium-entropy (Ti,Ta,Zr,Nb)C using the spark plasma consolidation of carbide powders

In this study, we explore a simple and effective method for producing a quaternary solid-solution of carbides, a medium-entropy (Ti1/4Ta1/4Zr1/4Nb1/4)C. Using commercially-available carbide powders with an equimolar ratio and performing spark plasma consolidation at 1927 ​°C and 1977 ​°C, we demonstrated that the phase formation and high-temperature flexural strength can be controlled using the processing conditions. The flexural strength and fracture toughness at room temperature were reached an average of 560 ​MPa and 3.2 ​MPa ​m1/2, respectively. The high-temperature performance of these ceramics was analyzed and compared with the available data for the group IV and V transition metal carbide monoliths.