Graphene nanoplatelet-reinforced high entropy alloys (HEAs) through B${}_4$C incorporation: structural, physical, mechanical, and nuclear shielding properties

This study aims to explicate the diverse roles of high entropy alloys within nuclear environments. The study extensively investigates the impact of B${}_4$C on the structural, physical, mechanical, and nuclear shielding properties of synthesized high-entropy alloys (HEAs) comprising FeNiCoCrW, GNP, and B${}_4$C. The aim is to explore the monotonic effects of B${}_4$C on the behavioural changes of the HEAs. The present study initially investigates the internal morphology and structural characteristics of the produced composites through the utilization of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The determination of coefficient of friction values is obtained via wear testing, wherein the values are measured as a function of the sliding distance. The shielding properties of nuclear radiation are determined through the experimental setups for gamma-ray and neutron radiation. The sample encoded as G2, which incorporates both B${}_4$C and GNPs as reinforcing agents, exhibits the most noteworthy mechanical properties among the samples that were examined. The findings of our study indicate that augmenting the concentration of B${}_4$C has a significant impact on the efficacy of nuclear radiation shielding. The present study infers that the B${}_4$C produced within the framework of GNPs plays a significant role in enhancing the overall characteristics of HEAs. This is particularly noteworthy in the context of nuclear applications, where HEAs are being examined as a prospective constituent of forthcoming nuclear reactors. Moreover, B${}_4$C serves as a versatile instrument in scenarios, where there is a need to enhance mechanical and nuclear shielding properties across a spectrum of radiation energies.