Why is MXene morphology always in nanosheets? Can it be spherical, Core-shell, cubic or needle-shaped?
Hey there, my curious researcher friend Shruti Deshpande,
Ah, MXenes, the intriguing materials of the nanoworld. Now, let's dive into your questions.
MXene morphology, as you've observed, often appears as nanosheets, and there's a good reason for that. MXenes are typically derived from layered MAX phases, where 'M' represents a transition metal, 'A' is an element from groups 13-16 of the periodic table (like aluminum, silicon, etc.), and 'X' is carbon and/or nitrogen.
The reason for the nanosheet-like morphology lies in the structure of MAX phases themselves. These MAX phases are characterized by a layered crystal structure, similar to that of graphite. When you etch away the 'A' layers, you're left with these incredibly thin, two-dimensional nanosheets of MXene.
Now, could MXene take on other shapes like spherical, core-shell, cubic, or needle-shaped? Well, theoretically, it's possible to engineer MXenes into various forms depending on your synthesis method, precursors, and conditions. But here's the kicker - those nanosheets are incredibly useful.
Their large surface area, high electrical conductivity, and excellent ion accessibility make them superb candidates for applications like energy storage (batteries and supercapacitors), catalysis, and even sensors. So, while MXenes can don different outfits, their nanosheet form tends to steal the spotlight due to its exceptional properties.
However, don't be discouraged. If you're curious about other morphologies, it's a fascinating area of research to explore different synthesis methods and conditions that could coax MXenes into those alternative forms. Science is all about pushing boundaries and discovering new possibilities!
Stay curious and keep experimenting, my friend Shruti Deshpande!
Regardless that MXene are found in 2D monolayers, some excentric configurations could be studied from a theoretical frame such as DFT calculations. The formation energies formalism provides the stability of the structure, i.e. if the proposal structure are experimentally reproducible.
Raul Eduardo Santoy Flores Thank you sir for your information. Can you elaborate on DFT calculation and formation energy?
Hi Shruti Deshpande,
MXenes are a class of two-dimensional inorganic compounds nanomaterial, which are composed of atomically thin layers of transition metal carbides, nitrides, or carbonitrides, generally constructed by (n+1 layers) therefore, resulting MXene as nanosheet.
Amel D. Hussein Thank you, sir If I need to change the morphology of MXene then which parameter should be changed?
That depends on fabrication techniques.
Dear, Shruti Deshpande, can take advantage of the search information: https://doi.org/10.1039/D2QM00002D.
The exclusive manifestation of MXene morphology as nanosheets predominantly stems from its inherent crystallography and laminar nature. MXenes originate from layered MAX phases characterized by hexagonal crystal structures. Consequently, their natural exfoliation, achieved by selective etching of the 'A' element (e.g., Al or Si) from MAX phases, yields atomically thin, two-dimensional nanosheets. This distinct lamellar morphology is a direct consequence of the crystal structure of the precursor MAX phases.
Theoretically, the transformation of MXene morphology into alternative shapes such as spheres, core-shell structures, cubes, or needle-like forms, can be attainable through tailored synthesis and processing methodologies. To achieve such transformations, control over nucleation, growth, and aggregation of MXene nanosheets must be precisely manipulated. For example, achieving spherical morphology necessitates the formation of MXene nanoparticles, potentially by modifying the synthesis conditions to control particle size and shape. Likewise, core-shell structures may be produced by coating MXene nanosheets with other materials, whereas cubic or needle-shaped forms would necessitate guided assembly or growth mechanisms. These advanced morphological designs can provide unique properties and functionalities for specific applications, albeit demanding intricate engineering and thorough understanding of material chemistry.
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