Electric-field assisted ultrafast synthesis of Ti3SiC2 MAX phase

Abstract

A galaxy of new two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides (MXenes) have outperformed other 2D nanomaterials in numerous promising applications due to their extraordinary properties. However, the synthesis of MAX phase is pertinent as it is the only precursor for the development of 2D MXenes. As many conventional MAX phase synthesis procedures are complex, time- and power consuming, we have introduced a novel electric-field-assisted flash sintering technique for a rapid synthesis of Ti3SiC2 MAX phase in both air and vacuum, facilitated by Joule heating effect. The flashing event was observed with an uncontrollable rise in current flow (similar to 255 mA/mm(2)) on the application of voltage in a range of 35-42 V/cm. Experimental outcome predicted that Ti3SiC2 MAX phase was synthesized by applying an electric field. Here we support the experimental findings through computational approach by using density functional theory calculations. We also report the synthesis of 2D Ti3C2TX MXene from flash-synthesized Ti3SiC2 MAX phase. The scientific innovation discussed here could be a breakthrough in the rapid synthesis of different MAX phases with great potential for implementation in industrial scale.