Optimization of Synthesis Conditions for Improving Ti3AlC2 MAX Phase Using Titanium Scraps

To synthesize the Ti3AlC2 MAX phase, a crucial precursor for generating the two-dimensional material MXene, the use of Ti scrap as an initial material is an economically feasible approach. This study aims to optimize the synthesis conditions for the phase fraction of the Ti3AlC2 MAX phase utilizing Ti scrap as the Ti source. The deoxidation of Ti powders, prepared through the hydrogenation-dehydrogenation process from Ti scrap, was effectively accomplished using the deoxidation in solid-state (DOSS) process. The optimal synthesis conditions were established by blending DOSS-Ti, Al, and graphite powders with particle sizes ranging from 25 ~ 32 μm in a molar ratio of 3:1.1:2. The resulting phase fractions were as follows: Ti3AlC2 at 97.25 wt.%, TiC at 0.93 wt.%, and Al3Ti at 1.82 wt.%. Furthermore, the oxygen content of the Ti3AlC2 MAX powder, spanning from 25 ~ 45 μm, was measured at 4,210 ppm.