Examination of gamma radiation transmittance properties of Nb ₂ AlC and Nb ₂ CT _x samples fabricated by powder metallurgy

Interest in new-generation materials is increasing daily. New studies and research on MAX phases in many different structures and the superior mechanical and physical properties of MXenes make MXenes the focus of research. In this study, the synthesis, characterization, and gamma-ray shielding properties of niobium-based MAX phases (Nb2AlC) and MXenes obtained from this powder (Nb2CTₓ) were investigated. Nb2AlC and Nb2CTₓ stand out from other MAX phase materials with superior properties in materials with mechanical, thermal, electrical, and chemical resistance properties. Selective etching of Al layers was performed using hydrofluoric acid (HF) to produce Nb2AlC MAX phase powders and Nb2CTₓ MXenes. The etching parameters (HF concentration: 38–40%, time: 30–360 h) were optimized to obtain exfoliated accordion-like MXene nanostructures. The best MXene transformation occurred after 168 h of etching. Gamma-ray attenuation measurements highlight their potential in nuclear applications by utilizing their oxidation resistance, thermal stability, and mechanical strength. In addition, the-radiation shielding properties of MAX phase materials were investigated, and the best result was obtained for Nb2AlC.