Reviewed by Lexie CornerJun 2 2025
A analysis group has reported the primary profitable synthesis of high-purity, tunable nitrogen (N)-substituted MAX precursors and ensuing MXene two-dimensional (2D) supplies. Their findings had been revealed in Superior Supplies.
(Prime) Schematic illustration and images of cold-pressed pellets of XSS MAX phases. (Backside) {Photograph} of synthesized XSS MXenes displaying: i) cold-pressed multi-layered MXene (m-MXene), ii) delaminated MXene (d-MXene) answer (prime) with a vacuum-filtrated free-standing movie (backside). Picture Credit score: Unist
MXenes are a category of 2D nanomaterials composed of alternating layers of steel and carbon. They’re recognized for his or her excessive electrical conductivity and versatile chemical properties, which make them promising for a variety of purposes.
Particularly, MXenes are attracting consideration as light-weight, ultrathin supplies for shielding in opposition to electromagnetic interference (EMI), particularly within the sub-terahertz (sub-THz) vary. In comparison with typical metallic shields, that are heavy, susceptible to corrosion, and fewer efficient at excessive frequencies, MXenes provide higher high-frequency shielding with diminished weight and thickness.
Most MXenes developed to this point have been carbon-based. Nevertheless, theoretical research advised that changing some carbon atoms with nitrogen may additional improve their bodily and chemical properties. Earlier makes an attempt to attain this substitution had been restricted by synthesis challenges. This examine overcame these obstacles by partially changing carbon within the MAX precursors with nitrogen, utilizing a titanium-based synthesis methodology. The ensuing MXene supplies confirmed improved efficiency.
The N-substituted MXene movies, that are solely about 5–10 micrometers thick—roughly one-tenth the thickness of a human hair—demonstrated {an electrical} conductivity of 35,000 S/cm. That is the best reported worth for MXenes to this point and contributes to their robust EMI shielding functionality.
The strategy additionally permits exact management over the extent of nitrogen substitution, from 0% to almost 100%, whereas sustaining a single-crystal construction freed from impurities. This tunability permits wonderful changes to the fabric’s electromagnetic properties, making it appropriate for numerous high-frequency and EMI-related purposes.
N-substituted MXenes symbolize a groundbreaking development in next-generation electromagnetic shielding know-how. They’ve the potential to considerably scale back electromagnetic interference throughout a variety of fields—from cellular gadgets and automotive or aerospace digital methods to superior communication infrastructure.
Quickly-Yong Kwon, Professor, Graduate College of Semiconductor Supplies and Gadgets Engineering, Ulsan Nationwide Institute of Science & Know-how
This examine was supported by the Nano Materials Know-how Growth Program of Korea’s Nationwide Analysis Basis (NRF), which is financed by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT).
Journal Reference:
Han, J.-H. et al. (2025) Ultrahigh Conductive MXene Movies for Broadband Electromagnetic Interference Shielding. Superior Supplies. doi.org/10.1002/adma.202502443
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