Z.D. Hood, S.P. Adhikari
Argonne National Laboratory,
United States
Keywords: two-dimensional materials, transition metal carbides, MXenes, materials synthesis and manufacturing, nanoscale characterization, multifunctional properties
Summary:
The expanded utility of advanced two-dimensional materials, notably MXenes, spanning energy storage in Li-ion batteries, supercapacitors, composites, catalysis, gas sensors, and numerous applications, necessitates heightened efficiency, predictability, and reliability. The distinctive atomic structure of MXenes, comprising transition metal carbides, nitrides, or carbonitrides, manifests as a layered two-dimensional arrangement conducive to diverse functionalities. Their exceptional properties—high conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and surface reactivity—underpin their potential across multifaceted applications, further underscoring the necessity for precise synthesis and processing methodologies. However, this landscape encounters challenges in MXene synthesis and processing due to their intricate structure, demanding meticulous control over composition and morphology. Addressing these complexities, this presentation will introduce the "Argonne MXene Innovations" initiative, which stands as a pioneering, multidisciplinary approach, leveraging cutting-edge science and engineering capabilities. By integrating supercomputing for advanced materials design at the Argonne Leadership Computing Facility, high-resolution X-ray imaging at the Advanced Photon Source, nanoscale insights from the Center for Nanoscale Materials, and synthesis expertise at the Materials Engineering Research Facility, this initiative aims to tackle MXene synthesis challenges and scale-up processes for this emergent class of 2D materials. During this presentation, we will spotlight specific case studies within the subprograms of Argonne MXene Innovations—MXBat, MXCat, MXCel, MXFab, MXMech, MXProtect, and MXSense—focusing on their contributions to enhancing energy storage, electrocatalysis, conductivity optimization, synthesis methodologies, mechanical reinforcement, surface protection, and sensing capabilities of 2D materials. These case studies will showcase how collaboration with Argonne MXene Innovations accelerates developmental processes, improves application performance, and offers alternative methods beyond traditional trial-and-error approaches. Acknowledgements: This project was supported by Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) funding from Argonne National Laboratory, provided by the Director, Office of Science, of the U.S. Department of Energy under Contract No. DE-AC02-06CH11357. References: 1. https://www.anl.gov/partnerships/revolutionizing-advanced-twodimensional-materials