MXene based multifunctional nanocomposites via electrolytic plasma surface treatment of light alloys

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Light-weight metallic materials, such as Mg, Al and Ti alloys, are known for high strength-to-weight ratio, which makes them attractive to many applications including transportation, energy and biomedical devices. However high chemical reactivity and low wear resistance significantly hinder their use in demanding applications. Plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) is an advanced surface treatment developed for light alloys, which has recently attracted interest due to relative simplicity, environmental benefits and high performance of the coatings produced. However conventional PEO coatings can provide only passive protection to light alloys, so they need to be further engineered to enable active and multifunctional performance in line with modern smart materials approaches. Innovative 2D materials, such as MXenes that possess layered structures and diverse properties, can provide a suitable platform for engineering of PEO coatings to address problems pertinent to light alloys. However, there are fundamental problems associated with direct incorporation of these materials into growing PEO coatings, addressing which will require tailoring MXene's chemistry and manufacturing routes as well as exploring alternative surface engineering strategies. This project will be aiming at creating modified MXene type additives and exploring new ways to introduce them into PEO coatings formed on various light alloy substrates. This will be followed by advanced surface characterisation and evaluation to achieve a better understanding of the potential for innovative applications of the new multifunctional PEO coatings.