MXenes are a family of two-dimensional transition metal carbides, nitrides and carbonitrides. They were first reported in 2011, when researchers at Drexel University produced Ti3C2 by removing the aluminium layers from the MAX phase Ti3AlC2. MXenes are now among the most studied 2D materials because they combine metallic conductivity with a surface that disperses readily in water.
What is a MXene?
MXenes have the general formula Mn+1XnTx, where M is an early transition metal such as titanium, vanadium, niobium, molybdenum or tantalum, X is carbon and/or nitrogen, and Tx stands for the surface groups (–O, –OH, –F) left behind by the etching step. The value of n is usually 1 to 4. Common examples are Ti3C2Tx, Ti2CTx, Nb2CTx, V2CTx, Mo2CTx and Ta4C3Tx.
How MXenes are made from MAX phases
The starting material is a MAX phase, a layered ceramic with the formula Mn+1AXn, in which A is an A-group element, most often aluminium. The A layer is selectively etched, either with hydrofluoric acid or with HF generated in situ from a fluoride salt and hydrochloric acid. This leaves a stacked, accordion-like multilayer MXene. Intercalation and delamination then separate the stack into few-layer or single-layer flakes that form stable dispersions in water. The quality of the MXene depends strongly on the quality of the MAX phase precursor.
Key properties
- High electrical conductivity – MXenes such as Ti3C2Tx behave as metallic conductors.
- Hydrophilic surface – they disperse in water without surfactants and can be processed into films, coatings and inks.
- High volumetric capacitance – useful for supercapacitor and battery electrodes.
- EMI shielding – thin MXene films attenuate electromagnetic interference effectively.
- Tunable chemistry – properties change with the metal, the carbon/nitrogen ratio and the surface terminations.
Which form should you buy?
| Form | What it is | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Multilayer powder | As-etched, stacked MXene | Electrode slurries, composites, starting point for your own delamination |
| Few-layer or single-layer nanoflakes / dispersion | Delaminated flakes, dry or in water | Films, coatings, sensors, inks |
| Films and inks | Ready-processed MXene | EMI shielding, printed and flexible electronics |
| MAX phase powder | The precursor (for example Ti3AlC2) | Labs that etch their own MXene, ceramics research |
All of these are listed in our MXene and MAX phase range, including Ti3C2Tx MXene Few layer Nanoflake, Ti3AlC2 MAXene Powder and Ti2C MXene Powder.
Applications
- Supercapacitors and lithium-ion or sodium-ion battery electrodes
- Electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding coatings and films
- Gas, strain and biosensors
- Conductive inks and transparent conductive films
- Electrocatalysis, including hydrogen evolution
- Membranes and adsorbents for water treatment
Storage and handling
MXenes oxidise gradually in the presence of water and oxygen; titanium carbide MXene slowly converts to titanium dioxide. Keep dispersions sealed, cold and away from light and use them soon after opening. Keep powders sealed and dry, ideally under an inert gas. Always follow the storage note on the product page.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a MAX phase and a MXene?
A MAX phase is the bulk layered ceramic that still contains the A element, such as aluminium. A MXene is the two-dimensional material left after that A layer has been etched away.
Which MXene is used most often?
Ti3C2Tx is the most widely studied MXene and the usual starting point for new projects.
Is MXene the same as graphene?
No. Both are 2D materials, but MXenes are metal carbides or nitrides with a hydrophilic surface, while graphene is pure carbon. See our guide to graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide for the carbon side.
How do I get MXene price in India?
Chemazone India quotes each order individually. Send the product name, form and quantity through our contact page and we will reply with price and lead time.