Microstructural defects in MAX phases
Résumé
The control of complex micro- and nano-structures is one of the most promising strategies to design materials with tailored properties. Mn+1 AXn phases, where n ranges from 1 to 3, are a group of materials composed of a transition metal M, an A-group element A, and nitrogen or carbon X. These materials exhibit a unique combination of properties derived from both ceramics (refractory, high stiffness, low density, low ductility at room temperature) and metals (high thermal and electrical conductivity, resistance to thermal shocks, low hardness, and mechanical strength), making them highly attractive for various potential applications. Furthermore, several composites of MAX phases and metals (such as Cu and Mg) enable the creation of complex microstructures for optimizing various properties, including mechanical, and hydrogen storage. However, before any industrial exploitation, it is crucial to gain a better understanding of the operating mechanisms and the related micro-/nano-structural defects.
Here, we will describe recent advances in understanding micro-/nano-structural defects and their links to operating mechanisms of deformation [1,2], diffusion [3], and oxidation [4].
[1] A. Heinzelmeier et al.; JOURNAL OF ALLOYS AND COMPOUNDS, 2023, 950, 169946
[2] A. Mussi et al.; MATERIALS CHARACTERIZATION, 2023, 200, 112882
[3] W. Yu et al.; SCRIPTA MATERIALIA, 2021, 19, 34-39
[4] J. Guénolé et al.; SCRIPTA MATERIALIA, 2022, 210, 114425