Nano-laminated ternary carbides and nitrides are generally named as MAX phases, where M is transition metal, A is A-group element, and X is caron and/or nitrogen. Borides with similar structure are named as MAB phases. The MAX phases are hexagonal materials with an inherent layering at nanoscale. These materials are responsible for a unique combination of metal/ceramic properties. Like ceramics, the materials are rigid at high temperature; like metals, these materials are machinable, good electrical and thermal conductive, which can have diverse potential applications. The atomic metal layers in MAX phase and MAB phases can be also selectively removed out of a structure to separate each nanolaminates block of transition metal compounds to form 2D solids. Despite their relatively short history, MXenes (the 2D phase after removing A layers from MAX phases) have attracted attention of scientists due to their attractive properties such as excellent electronic conductivity, surface functionality, and tunability, among others.
This symposium will focus on designing, processing, structure-property relationships, thermal, electrical, optoelectronic, solid lubrication, mechanical properties, oxidation resistance, stability, and applications of these novel nanolaminates compounds in their 2D and 3D forms. In addition, exploratory research on related ternary chemistry is also invited.