Titanium Aluminum Carbide (Ti₃AlC₂) MAX Phase Micron Powder
APS: 325 Mesh, Purity: 99+%
Titanium Aluminum Carbide is a ternary carbide material from the MAX phase family, featuring a unique nanolaminated atomic structure that combines the characteristics of metals and ceramics. Its crystal structure contains TiₓCᵧ layers separated by Al atomic planes, creating a natural composite architecture. This arrangement provides ceramic-like high-temperature stability and stiffness along with metallic properties such as electrical conductivity, thermal shock resistance, and damage tolerance. Unlike conventional ceramics, Ti₃AlC₂ allows dislocation movement through kink-band formation, enabling excellent machinability and plastic deformation at elevated temperatures while avoiding brittle failure.
Technical Properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Compound Formula | Ti₃AlC₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 194.605 g/mol |
| Melting Point | 2100 °C |
| Density | 2.36 g/cm³ (20 °C) |
| Appearance | Gray |
| Compressive Strength | 764 MPa |
| Bending Strength | 375±15 MPa |
| Vickers Hardness | 3.5 GPa |
| Youngs Modulus | 297 GPa |
Applications
MXene (Ti₃C₂Tₓ) Synthesis: Ti₃AlC₂ serves as a primary precursor for MXene production. By selectively removing aluminum layers, 2D Ti₃C₂Tₓ nanosheets are produced for applications including electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, high-rate energy storage, and advanced biosensors.
High-Temperature Structural Components: Due to its ability to form protective self-healing alumina scales during oxidation, Ti₃AlC₂ is suitable for applications above 1000°C, including turbine components, high-temperature heat exchangers, and kiln furniture requiring excellent thermal shock resistance.
Advanced Energy Storage: Used in lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors due to its metallic-like electrical conductivity, efficient electron transport capability, and chemical stability during repeated charge-discharge cycles.
Tribology and Conductive Wear Parts: Its basal plane slip mechanism provides natural self-lubricating characteristics, making it suitable for electrical brushes, pantographs, and sliding bearings requiring electrical conductivity and low friction.
Aerospace and Defense: The combination of low density and high elastic modulus enables Ti₃AlC₂ utilization in lightweight ballistic armor and aerospace structural components exposed to extreme mechanical loads and corrosive environments.
