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2000
Volume 15, Issue 5
  • ISSN: 2210-6812
  • E-ISSN: 2210-6820

Abstract

Introduction

MXenes, 2D transition metal carbides, nitrides, or carbonitrides, have garnered significant research attention due to their exceptional properties. Delaminated MXenes (d-MXenes) have further expanded interest due to their enhanced functionalities. However, their instability in aqueous solutions and oxygen-rich environments at room temperature, leading to surface oxidation, remains a critical challenge.

Methods

In this study, TiCT and MoCT multilayer MXenes were synthesized from their respective MAX phases (TiAlC and MoGaC) using a mixed etching solution of 12 M HCl, DI water, and 48% HF with ratios of 6:3:1 (for TiAlC) and 6:1:3 (for MoGaC). The etched MXenes were further treated with 0.5 M LiCl to obtain delaminated MXene (d-MXene) sheets, dispersed in nitrogen-degassed DI water.

Results

The d-MXenes were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, HRSEM, and EDS. Samples were aged at room temperature for 20 days, after which fresh samples were also prepared from the same MXene solutions for comparison.

Discussion

HRSEM and EDS analyses revealed that 20-day-old d-MXene samples exhibited surface oxide formation, with TiCT forming pinecone-like structures (TiO) and MoCT showing spherical oxide particles (MoO). In contrast, freshly prepared d-MXene samples exhibited unoxidized smooth surfaces and sharp edges for TiCT and uneven surfaces with bent edges for MoCT.

Conclusion

After 45 days in aqueous solutions at room temperature, the TiCT solution color changed from transparent green to whitish, and the MoCT from transparent brown to blue, confirming significant oxidation. These findings emphasize the need for deoxygenated storage conditions to enhance the stability and lifespan of TiCT and MoCT d-MXenes in both liquid and solid forms.

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2025-08-05
2026-03-11

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Stability Investigation of Delaminated Ti3C2Tx and Mo2CTx MXene Sheets: A Comparative Study
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology-Asia 15, E22106812391332 (2025); https://doi.org/10.2174/0122106812391332250727161959
/content/journals/nanoasi/10.2174/0122106812391332250727161959
/content/journals/nanoasi/10.2174/0122106812391332250727161959
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  • Article Type:     Research Article
Keyword(s): aqueous MXene stability; Delaminated MXene; molybdenum carbide MXene (Mo2CTx); MXene oxidation; solid-state MXene; titanium carbide MXene (Ti3C2Tx)

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