Laser-assisted exfoliation of Ti3C2Tx

Abstract

As an emerging two-dimensional material, MXene has shown a wide range of applications, which has triggered the demand for efficient exfoliation of nanoflakes with large size and specific surface area. Here, we took advantage of the efficient photo-thermal conversion of Ti₃C₂T_x and employed 532 nm continuous wave laser irradiation to assist the traditional ultrasonic exfoliation, with no need for complex equipment and an expensive femtosecond or picosecond laser. This approach greatly improves the exfoliation efficiency, increases the size, uniformity and specific surface area of the Ti₃C₂T_x nanoflakes, and reduces energy consumption as well. The electrical conductivity of Ti₃C₂T_x film is also significantly enhanced (from 3135 to 7433 S m⁻¹). It is demonstrated that the laser promotes the formation of Ti–OH and enhances the solubility of Ti₃C₂T_x in water, facilitating the exfoliation and preventing oxidation as a result.