The project, titled "Processing and Characterization of High Entropy Alloys for Hydrogen Storage," aims to explore the potential of high entropy alloys (HEA) for hydrogen storage. HEA are a versatile alloy material that is generally composed of 5 or more elements in a single phase, alloyed in equiatomic or near-equiatomic proportions, also known as multi-principal component alloys (MPCA).

High entropy alloys (HEA) have been extensively studied for their potential in hydrogen storage applications. Recent advances have highlighted their superior hydrogen storage capacity, more accessible storage conditions, and stability compared to conventional alloys. The unique multi-element composition and structural properties of HEA offer significant advantages for optimizing hydrogen absorption and desorption processes.

Synthesis of HEA. High entropy alloys (HEA) can be synthesized by various techniques, mainly including liquid, solid, and gas phase methods. Liquid synthesis, such as arc melting and laser cladding, is usually used to produce HEA with selected composition. Solid-state methods, such as mechanical alloying or high-energy ball milling, are widely used due to their ability to mix elements that are otherwise immiscible. Gas phase methods, such as vapor deposition, allow for precise control of the composition and microstructure of the HEA.

Initial plans are to use high-energy ball milling and laser cladding techniques to synthesize HEA, and to continuously improve experimental protocols and parameters to enhance material properties and performance.

Microstructure and performance analysis. The most common methods for testing hydrogen storage in high entropy alloys (HEA) include gravimetric methods (such as the Sieverts method), volumetric analysis, and thermal desorption spectroscopy (also known as programmed temperature desorption). The Sieverts method measures the pressure change to determine the amount of hydrogen absorbed; it is also the most widely used technique for measuring hydrogen adsorption.

The microstructural, mechanical and hydrogen storage properties of the experimentally synthesized high entropy alloys (HEA) will be analyzed using testing techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and hydrogen absorption/release measurements (Sieverts method) to ensure comprehensive material characterization.

Optimization. A series of experimental processes and analyses will be conducted to determine the ideal alloy composition and experimental parameters; in addition, the maximum storage capacity and stability will be achieved through hydrogen storage performance testing and improvement. Finally, the preferred high entropy alloy (HEA) composition will be determined and optimized for efficient hydrogen storage.