High-Performance Alloys from Recycled Feedstocks: Sustainable High Entropy Powders Material
A new Australian innovation is poised to redefine how advanced materials are developed for high-demand industrial sectors. EntroMat, a spinout from Swinburne University of Technology, is commercializing Sustainable High Entropy Material (HEM) powders engineered from recycled industrial feedstocks. Supported by funding from Breakthrough Victoria’s University Innovation Platform, this initiative represents a significant step forward in the field of sustainable powder metallurgy. Sustainable High Entropy Powders will play a significant role in the future of Advanced Manufacturing.
These proprietary HEM powders for additive manufacturing, surface engineering, and powder metallurgy. They tailor each formulation to meet the demands of advanced processing technologies. Moreover, the powders deliver outstanding mechanical strength, thermal stability, and corrosion resistance.
They also resist radiation, making them suitable for extreme and regulated environments. As a result, these powders offer strong potential in aerospace, mining, medical, and defense sectors.
What Are (Sustainable) High Entropy Materials (HEMs)?
High Entropy Materials (HEMs) are a new class of alloys made from multiple principal elements.
These elements are combined in near-equal proportions, unlike traditional alloys with one dominant base metal.
HEMs use the collective behavior of elements to create a complex and stable microstructure.
This structure offers enhanced wear resistance, thermal stability, and chemical inertness for tough industrial environments.
The strength of HEMs comes from their high configurational entropy.
This entropy stabilizes a single-phase solid solution, even at elevated temperatures.
EntroMat enhances this benefit by using recycled critical minerals in its powder formulations.
This approach supports the circular economy and boosts material efficiency.
It also aligns performance goals with sustainability in modern manufacturing.
Innovation Rooted in Computational Alloy Design
EntroMat combines computational alloy design, critical mineral recycling, and scalable powder production techniques. Together, these elements form a unified platform for sustainable and high-performance powder development. Moreover, this approach enables the creation of next-generation powders for demanding industrial applications. The powders meet both technical performance requirements and sustainability goals in modern manufacturing. As a result, EntroMat positions itself at the forefront of materials innovation and industrial transformation.
“EntroMat is built on sovereign technology developed at Swinburne over the past decade,” said Greg Lindsay, CEO of EntroMat and Swinburne’s Founder in Residence. “We’re creating materials that will outperform conventional products, opening new markets and applications.”
Industrial Applications and Early Partnerships
The company is already engaging with industry stakeholders. D&T Hydraulics, a remanufacturing service provider for the mining industry, has signed a Letter of Intent to collaborate with EntroMat. The goal is to develop and test HEM-based components for hydraulic cylinder rods, which require high resistance to pressure, wear, and corrosion.
“We look forward to collaborating with Australian and international partners interested in adopting next-generation metal powders,” said Associate Professor Andrew Ang, co-founder of EntroMat and co-director of the Swinburne Space Technology and Industry Institute.
Supporting Sovereign Capability in Powder Technology
EntroMat’s initiative supports Australia’s broader strategy to develop sovereign capabilities in high-performance materials and reduce dependence on imports. The project aligns with national priorities in advanced manufacturing, defense readiness, and critical mineral reuse.
“This investment accelerates the pathway from research to commercial success,” said Dr. Werner van der Merwe, Vice-President of Innovation and Enterprise at Swinburne. “EntroMat demonstrates how research-backed startups can scale and deliver real impact.”
Government and Institutional Support
The Victorian Government is actively supporting EntroMat’s journey. In particular, Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs, Danny Pearson, emphasized that the project has strong potential to drive economic development, stimulate job creation, and accelerate the commercialization of deep tech innovation.
Rod Bristow, CEO of Breakthrough Victoria, emphasized the strategic importance of the project:
“EntroMat’s powders represent a breakthrough for industries requiring stronger, more sustainable materials. Our support reflects our commitment to transforming cutting-edge research into practical industrial solutions.”
Outlook: A Sustainable Future for Advanced Powder Manufacturing
EntroMat continues to scale production and expand its network of industry partnerships. As a result, its high-entropy powders could soon become essential in powder-based technologies. Furthermore, strong institutional support reinforces the company’s momentum and long-term growth. Backed by scientific innovation, EntroMat strengthens its position in advanced materials development. Consequently, the company aims to serve Australian and global markets with sustainable, high-performance powders.
