Microstructure and tribological property of a MXene derived from Ti3AlC2

Abstract Ti 3 C 2 layers with a layered two-dimensional structure are synthesized by immersing a precursor Ti 3 AlC 2 with hydrofluoric acid solution. The microstructure of Ti 3 C 2 layers is analyzed by SEM, XRD, Raman and AFM. Additionally, the tribological behavior of Ti 3 C 2 layers is investigated at various loads and sliding speeds by sliding against Si 3 N 4 balls on a UMT-2 tribometer. In comparison, the tribological behavior of Ti 3 AlC 2 at various loads is tested under identical condition. The results indicate that the Ti 3 C 2 layers have been successfully prepared and their thickness mainly distributes in the range of 2.3–3.1 nm. Moreover, the Ti 3 C 2 layers exhibit better tribological behavior than its precursor -Ti 3 AlC 2 in dry sliding. It is expected that the Ti 3 C 2 layers will be applied as a solid lubricant additive for other materials.