Mechanical properties and frictional resistance of Al composites reinforced with Ti3C2Tx MXene

Abstract

Two-dimensional (2D) Ti3C2Tx MXene is an attractive additive not only used in base oil due to its low friction coefficient, but also used in composites due to its high aspect ratio and rich surface functional groups. So far there has been intense research into polymer matrix composites reinforced with Ti3C2Tx. Here we report on the use of 2D Ti3C2Tx to enhance the mechanical and frictional properties of Al matrix composites. Ti3C2Tx/Al composites were designed and prepared by pressureless sintering followed by hot extrusion technique. The prepared composites exhibit a homogeneous distribution of Ti3C2Tx. The Vickers hardness and the tensile strength continuously increase with increasing Ti3C2Tx content. A hardness of 0.52 GPa and a tensile strength of 148 MPa were achieved in the 3 wt% Ti3C2Tx/Al composite. The frictional properties of pure Al and the Ti3C2Tx/Al composite were comparably studied under dry sliding. A low friction coefficient of 0.2, twice lower than that of pure Al, was achieved in the 3 wt% Ti3C2Tx/Al composite. Ti3C2Tx acting as a solid lubricant reduces the abrasive wear in the composite, improving the frictional properties of Al matrix composites.