| Abstract Scope |
Ti3C2Tx-SiOC ceramic nanocomposites have potential in high temperature electrical and aerospace applications that leverage the thermal and chemical stability. In this study, exfoliated Ti3C2Tx nanosheets were synthesized and incorporated into a preceramic polymer after surface functionalization. Ti3C2Tx nanosheet domains were retained up to 1200°C before decomposing to cubic nodules of TiCy/TiOxCy. Pyrolysis temperature was further determined to affect electrical conductivity mechanisms as 1000°C pyrolysis led to decreasing conductivity with MXene loading. At 1200°C, electrical conductivity increased with MXene content due to a more complete MXene-SiOC interface and formation of turbostratic C that incorporated MXene into the electronic conduction pathways. In addition, MXene surfaces covered with functional groups significantly affect material properties such as hydrophobicity, electrical conductivity, and oxidation resistance. The methodology for organophilic Ti3C2Tx synthesis and Ti3C2Tx-SiOC fabrication will serve as a template for development of novel 2D nanomaterial modified polymer and ceramic composites. |