Significant strengthening effect in few-layered MXene-reinforced Al matrix composites

Abstract

In this study, Al matrix composites (AMCs) reinforced with few-layered MXene (FLM) were fabricated for the first time using self-assembly protocol and powder metallurgy. Individual FLM platelets, which decorated the grain boundaries without structural degradation, were singly incorporated into the Al matrix. The interfacial load transfer was considerably increased due to the generation of strong anchors at the FLM–Al interface via Al phase infiltration under densification. Consequently, the addition of 0.26 vol.% FLM considerably increased the composite strength by approximately 66%. This work demonstrated the effective application of MXene as a 2D reinforcement for AMCs towards high-specific-strength materials.