Layered Machinable and Electrically Conductive Ti2AlC and Ti3AlC2 Ceramics: a Review

Ti2AlC and Ti3AlC2 are the most light-weight and oxidation resistant layered ternary carbides belonging to the MAX phases. This review highlights recent achievements on the processing, microstructure, physical, mechanical and chemical properties of these two machinable and electrically conductive carbides. Ti2AlC and Ti3AlC2 display superior properties such as fracture toughness, electrical and thermal conductivities, and oxidation resistance over their binary counterpart. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the processing-microstructure-property correlations of these two carbides. Potential fields of applications for Ti2AlC and Ti3AlC2 are surveyed. In addition, we point out methods for further improving their properties in some specific applications through appropriate structural design and modification.