高熵合金觀念起源於1995年，利用多主元素的高熵效應來設計合金，希望能引發更多新合金的研究開發，以發現更多元的材料特性、現象及應用。由開始探索至目前，至少有20個國家30個以上的實驗室進入研究，自2003年起發表的期刊論文達130篇以上，再再顯示這是一個嶄新而充滿機會的新領域，值得更多人投入研究。本文主要是介紹高熵合金的觀念、多主元素效應、已開發的合金系統其微結構、機械性質、電化學性質及物理性質，可作為進入此領域的基礎。
High-entropy alloys were begun in 1995. They are designed based on high entropy effect arising from multi-principal elements contained in each composition. The new alloy concept was intended to activate the development of more and more new alloys having different properties, phenomena, and applications. Heretofore, at least 20 countries and more than 30 groups have engaged in this new field. Over 130 SCI papers have been published. All these demonstrate that high-entropy alloys are full of opportunities. They deserve more manpower and resource to invest research. This article introduces the alloy design concept, multi-principal-element effect, and reported alloy systems with their structure, microstructure, and mechanical, electrochemical, and physical properties. This could provide a basis for entering the field.
