Empa researches two-dimensional materials

(CONNECT) Researchers from four laboratories at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) are working on the investigation and production of two-dimensional materials. The findings are expected to have applications ranging from storing energy and eliminating carbon dioxide to medical therapies, according to a press release.

These so-called MXenes have structures similar to those of graphene. In contrast to these, however, they consist not only of carbon atoms, but of one or more transition metals in combination with nitrogen or carbon. They are produced in layered ceramic crystals, so-called MAX phases. Intermediate layers are dissolved using strong acid. The remaining structures are then separated from each other in an ultrasonic bath. The result is MXenes, which are predestined for numerous applications in various masses.

The four laboratories Functional Polymers, High-Performance Ceramics, Building Energy Materials and Components and nanotech@surfaces are involved in the research. "We cover the entire spectrum, from basic research and modeling to the production of MAX phases and MXenes through to applications," research manager Jakob Heier from the Laboratory for Functional Polymers is quoted as saying in the press release. "It is a great strength of Empa that all these competencies come together at one institute."

The researchers envisage the absorption and conversion of carbon dioxide, catalysis, energy storage and sensor technology as areas of application. In medicine, certain MXenes promise antimicrobial effects or targeted cancer therapy. "With their flexibility and adaptability, MXenes offer such great advantages that applications will not be long in coming," Jakob Heier is convinced. ce/ww