Modelling Surface Segregation in Compositionally Complex Alloys with Ab-Initio Accuracy

Abstract: Compositionally complex alloys or concentrated solid solutions are the latest frontier in catalyst design, but mixing different elements in one catalyst may result in surface segregation. Atomistic simulations can predict segregation patterns, but standard approaches based on mean-field models, cluster expansion, or classical interatomic potentials are often limited for the description of multicomponent alloys. We present machine learning potentials that can describe surface segregation with near DFT accuracy. The method is used to study a complex Co-Cu-Fe-Mo-Ni quinary alloy. For this alloy, an unexpected segregation of Co, which has a relatively high surface energy, is observed. We rationalize this surprising mechanism in terms of simple transition-metal chemistry.