  As beam power continues to increase in next-generation accelerator
facilities, high-power target systems face crucial challenges. Components like
beam windows and particle-production targets must endure significantly higher
levels of particle fluence. The primary beam's energy deposition causes rapid
heating (thermal shock) and induces microstructural changes (radiation damage)
within the target material. These effects ultimately deteriorate the
components' properties and lifespan. With conventional materials already
stretched to their limits, we are exploring novel materials including
High-Entropy Alloys and Electrospun Nanofibers that offer a fresh approach to
enhancing tolerance against thermal shock and radiation damage. Following an
introduction to the challenges facing high-power target systems, we will give
an overview of the promising advancements we have made so far in customizing
the compositions and microstructures of these pioneering materials. Our focus
is on optimizing their in-beam thermomechanical and physics performance.
Additionally, we will outline our ongoing plans for in-beam irradiation
experiments and advanced material characterizations. The primary goal of this
research is to push the frontiers of target materials, thereby enabling future
multi-MW facilities that will benefit various programs in high-energy physics
and beyond.
