A Novel Route for Synthesis of High Entropy Transition Metal Borides via Microwave-Induced Plasma *

This research focuses on the benefits of microwave-induced plasma as a means to synthesize high entropy transition metal borides. This novel synthesis route allows rapid heating/cooling rates and investigation into potential heating mechanisms offered by combined electric/magnetic field components. These field components may act together to yield high entropy ceramics at lower temperatures and processing time compared to conventional convective heating routes. Our novel microwave plasma approach relies on boro/carbothermal reduction from metal oxide-containing precursor powders (with graphite and B₄C as reducing agents). This precursor powder mixture allows efficient microwave energy absorption contributing to rapid and uniform sample heating. Potential interactions of the low-temperature microwave plasma with the precursor powder will be discussed in the context of dielectric and magnetic loss heating mechanisms.