| Abstract Scope |
Prof. Michel Barsoum's contributions to the field of ceramics and the deformation of layered solids have been significant. As his former PhD student, I gained valuable insights into these areas from him. My first encounter with this field (PhD research) was focused on using MAX phases as additives to enhance the mechanical properties of magnesium, forming nanocomposites. We also investigated the mechanical energy dissipation of resulting nanocomposites due to layered material deformation. Building on this knowledge, in my lab at Purdue, we now utilize 2D MXenes, derivatives of MAX phases, as additives in metal and ceramics. MXenes' negative surface charges and their 1-nm-thick structure enable us to design nanocomposites with a uniform distribution of the carbide additive and understand their atomic-scale reaction with the matrix. In this talk, I will discuss the evolution and properties of these nanocomposites and share some lessons learned from Prof. Barsoum. |