MXene
MXene: Definition, Synthesis from MAX Phases, Properties and Research Uses
MXenes are a family of 2D transition-metal carbides and nitrides that are both conductive and hydrophilic. This page explains how they are made from MAX phases, their key properties, applications, and the MXene and MAX-phase products available for research.
- Mₙ₊₁XₙTₓgeneral MXene formula
- Ti₃C₂Tₓ & Nb₂CTₓpowders and suspensions
- MAX phasesTi₃AlC₂, Ti₂AlC, V₂AlC, Nb₂AlC
- Research scaleavailable at AMI Scientific
What is MXene?
MXenes have the general formula Mₙ₊₁XₙTₓ: M is a transition metal (such as titanium, niobium or vanadium), X is carbon or nitrogen, and Tₓ are surface groups such as -O, -OH and -F. The most studied member is Ti₃C₂Tₓ, first reported in 2011.
MXenes are made from MAX phases, layered ceramics Mₙ₊₁AXₙ where A is an element such as aluminium. The A layer is selectively etched, usually with HF or a LiF/HCl mixture, leaving multi-layer carbide sheets. These can be further delaminated into single- or few-layer suspensions.
Properties and applications
Key properties
- High electrical conductivity for a solution-processable material.
- Hydrophilic, so it forms films and water-based inks easily.
- Tunable surface groups.
- Prone to oxidation in water and air; store cold and use promptly.
Research applications
- Supercapacitor and metal-ion battery electrodes.
- Electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding in thin films.
- Electrochemical sensors and gas sensors.
- Electrocatalysts and photocatalysts.
- Separation and desalination membranes.
MXene products
| Product | Best for | Price | Purchase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ti₃C₂Tₓ MXene powder, 98+%, 2–20 µm | Electrode and composite research | Rp 11.143.000 | Buy online |
| Single-layer Ti₃C₂Tₓ MXene suspension | Thin films, inks, EMI shielding | Rp 8.628.000 | Buy online |
| Multi-layer Ti₂CTₓ MXene powder | Energy storage and catalysis | Rp 9.015.000 | Buy online |
| Multi-layer Nb₂CTₓ MXene powder | Battery and photothermal research | Rp 15.014.000 | Buy online |
| Few-layer Nb₂CTₓ MXene suspension, 1 mg/mL | Films and biomedicine | Rp 16.369.000 | Buy online |
Store catalogue prices before 11% VAT and shipping; subject to change. Stock and delivery time are confirmed in the quotation.
MAX phases (MXene precursors)
For labs that want to synthesise MXene themselves.
| Product | Best for | Price | Purchase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ti₃AlC₂ MAX phase, 325 mesh, 99+% | Precursor for Ti₃C₂Tₓ MXene | Rp 4.177.000 | Buy online |
| Ti₂AlC MAX phase, 325 mesh, 99+% | Precursor for Ti₂CTₓ MXene | Rp 4.177.000 | Buy online |
| V₂AlC MAX phase | Precursor for V₂CTₓ MXene | Rp 4.370.000 | Buy online |
| Nb₂AlC MAX phase, 325 mesh, 99+% | Precursor for Nb₂CTₓ MXene | Rp 4.370.000 | Buy online |
Safety: etching MAX phases uses HF or LiF/HCl, which are extremely hazardous. Work only in a fume hood with HF-resistant PPE and keep calcium gluconate gel at hand. Products are for research and laboratory use only, not for consumption or as finished cosmetic ingredients. Full specifications and SDS are on each product page.
Frequently asked questions
What is MXene?
A family of 2D transition-metal carbides or nitrides (Mₙ₊₁XₙTₓ) made by etching the aluminium layer from MAX phases; the best known is Ti₃C₂Tₓ.
What is the difference between multi-layer powder and single-layer suspension?
Multi-layer powder is still stacked like an accordion and stores better; single-layer suspension is delaminated and ready for films but oxidises faster.
How should MXene be stored?
Keep tightly closed, cold and away from oxygen; use suspensions as soon as possible. Follow the product page and SDS instructions.
Need help choosing?
Tell us about your samples, methods and budget. Our team will put together the equipment and supplies with a formal quotation.
