Effects of high-entropy alloy binders on the microstructure and mechanical/thermal properties of cemented carbides

• Six HEA binders (e.g., CoCrFeNiMn) were successfully used to fabricate WC–HEA cemented carbides via mechanical alloying and two-step spark plasma sintering. • WC–HEA hardmetals exhibit superior hardness and fracture toughness compared to WC–metal or WC–intermetallic counterparts, overcoming the traditional hardness-toughness trade-off. • Thermal conductivity of WC–HEA is significantly lower than that of conventional WC–Co, which may be advantageous for thermal barrier applications. • The excellent HV–KIC relationship of WC–HEA suggests potential for engineering structural applications where both wear resistance and toughness are critical.