2D MXenes Ultra-high Temperature Materials for Hypersonic Systems
Abstract
The continued primacy of the U.S. Naval research in the modern age depends on the leadership of the U.S. in hypersonic systems. Such systems rely on ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs) to withstand extreme temperatures at hypersonic travel speeds. While improvements have been made in these composites, most of these changes are incremental modifications, and UHTC composites still suffer from low thermal shock resistance, fracture toughness, adjoining eutectic formation, and oxidation. In this project, we aim to take a leap forward in UHTC hypersonic materials through the design and use of the large family of two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides, called MXenes, as an additive material to UHTCs. MXenes are inherently 2D onenanometer-thick UHTC materials, with reactive surfaces and a broad selection of atomic compositions toward tailored bond formation with UHTCs grains, which promote lower temperature processing of UHTC composites. Additionally, MXenes have the highest elastic modulus and electrical conductivity amongst solution-processed 2D materials which can be made in large quantities. While mechanically rigid, MXenes# 2D flexible nature allows the encapsulation of grains of other UHTCs. MXenes# mechanical properties, combined with their nanolayered 2D forms and ability to control the strength of bonding at the interfaces, promote UHTC composites with high strengths and toughness, which can withstand extreme thermal shocks in hypersonic travel. Additionally, with precise control over MXenes compositions, we can add desired elements at the dopant level to UHTCs to further enhance their oxidation properties. MXenes in UHTCs will open an uncharted territory in the design of UHTC interfaces and grain boundaries at theatomic level through the control of atomic bonding between grains. This study will resultin the fundamental understanding of composite interfaces, mechanical properties and oxidation stability,which will assist in the design of large-scale manufacturable UHTC composites in future hypersonic applications. This project is the first step in revolutionizing the material possibilities of hypersonic systems through the creation of UHTC composites reinforced with 2D UHTC MXenes.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 13, 2025
- Source ID
- N000142512103
Entities
People
- Babak Anasori
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Purdue University
- United States Navy