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arXiv · 2602.07293

A Low-Cost, Strong, and Ductile Single-Phase Nb-Based Refractory Complex Concentrated Alloy

Ayeman M. Nahin·Jacob Pustelnik·Jessica Dong·Tamanna Zakia·Mingwei Zhang
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Abstract

The development of structural materials capable of sustained operation above 1200 {\deg}C is critical for next-generation energy and aerospace systems; however, Ni-based superalloys are fundamentally constrained by their melting temperatures, while conventional Nb-based refractory alloys are limited by modest specific strength and high cost. Here, we report on the design and mechanical performance of a cost-effective, non-equiatomic refractory complex concentrated alloy (RCCA), Nb45Ta15Ti20V20, engineered to overcome these limitations. Specifically, its specific strength surpasses wrought C-103 and rivals additively manufactured (AM) C-103 at temperatures up to 1300 {\deg}C while maintaining extensive room temperature tensile ductility (>10 %). Coupled with a high melting point (~2167 {\deg}C), reduced density (8.67 g/cc), and a raw material cost of ~$130/kg compared to >$500/kg for wrought C-103 and >$2,500/kg for AM C-103, this alloy delivers superior specific strength-cost efficiency, highlighting the promise of non-equiatomic RCCAs as viable alternatives to commercial refractory alloys.

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Ayeman M. Nahin, Jacob Pustelnik, Jessica Dong, Tamanna Zakia, Mingwei Zhang. 2026-02-07. A Low-Cost, Strong, and Ductile Single-Phase Nb-Based Refractory Complex Concentrated Alloy. https://arxiv.org/abs/2602.07293

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