Synthesis and oxidation kinetics of Cr2AlC V2AlC and Ti3AlC2 MAX phases

Abstract

MAX phases are the promising class of materials owing to their superior combination of both metal and ceramic properties. This includes high thermal and electrical conductivity, good machinability, great damage tolerability, and outstanding thermal shock resistance. MAX phases are also highly resistant to fatigue, creep, and oxidation. The reports on MAX phases increased exponentially after the discovery of their derivative, i.e., MXenes. Attempts are being made to develop novel MAX phases and their derivatives. This work sheds light on the fundamental aspects, including structure and defects together with the synthesis protocols and oxidation resistance of the MAX phases. The prime objective is to attain a stronger understanding of the synthesis protocol and oxidation performance of the MAX phases. The efforts have been carried out to bring insight knowledge related to mechanisms associated during non-isothermal oxidation in the MAX phases. The oxidation kinetic analysis is performed to gain further knowledge related to oxidation in the MAX phases. The complete work conducted in the present thesis is systematically presented in the seven chapters. Chapter 1: In this chapter, the current state of the MAX phases (M is an early transition metals, A is a group 13 16 elements, X is either C or N) has been addressed. The objective is to introduce basic fundamental aspects related to the MAX phases. A comprehensive discussion referred to the crystal structure of the MAX phases is presented. The theoretical understanding associated to electronic structure and atomic bonding in MAX phases is elaborated. The classification of the MAX phases on the basis of chemical versatility is reviewed. Efforts are also made to bring insight knowledge related to superior properties of the MAX phases. Moreover, the emergent need and significance of Cr2AlC, Ti3AlC2 and V2AlC MAX phases has been discussed. Chapter 2: Presents the literature survey on the work done for MAX phases. The progress in the synthesis and characterization of MAX