| Abstract Scope |
In this study, Ti₃C₂Tₓ-MXene was synthesized via selective etching of the Ti₃AlC₂-MAX phase, followed-by exfoliation and functionalization using DMSO and AEAPTMS to improve dispersion and interfacial compatibility. The functionalized-MXene was added to polysiloxane (PSO) precursor at 0, 5, and 10 wt% loadings and pyrolyzed under Ar at 1000°C, 1200°C, 1500°C to fabricate MXene/SiOC composites. The effects of MXene content and pyrolysis temperature on structure, phase, and thermal properties were studied using XPS, Raman, FTIR, and HR-TEM. Thermal conductivity was evaluated using the laser flash method, while true density was measured via helium pycnometry. Results show that a moderate MXene content (5-7 wt%) facilitates percolation-assisted phonon transport through the SiOC matrix, enhancing thermal conductivity without compromising structural integrity. This work highlights the critical role of MXene’s 2D morphology, high conductivity, and chemical interactions in tailoring ceramic nanocomposites for efficient thermal management in electronics, aerospace, and energy storage systems. |