High-entropy borides are compounds of metals with boron, a type of high-temperature ceramic that has been extensively studied over the past decade. Boride-based materials withstand temperatures exceeding 3000 degrees Celsius and are characterized by increased hardness and resistance to corrosion and oxidation. These properties allow their use in manufacturing high-temperature engine parts, nuclear reactor components, industrial furnaces, and other equipment operating in harsh environments, according to the university.
Synthesizing borides using known methods requires specialized and expensive equipment and is only done at high temperatures and inert environments, where chemical reactions are minimal. Scientists explained that during arc discharge, a self-sustaining atmosphere of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide forms, preventing oxidation of the product by atmospheric oxygen. Therefore, borides can be synthesized outdoors without using vacuum or specialized gas equipment.
This approach significantly simplifies the process, reduces energy consumption, and increases overall productivity. Researchers used the manufactured high-entropy borides to produce massive ceramic samples with a density of up to 96.5% and a hardness of 28.8 gigapascals, which is equivalent to ten times the hardness of steel.
