Facile synthesis of hollow Ti3AlC2 microrods in molten salts via Kirkendall effect

Abstract The microstructure and morphology of Ti 3 AlC 2 powders not only affect the preparation C MXene but also have a great influence on their potential applications, such as microwave absorbers, alloy additives, or catalytic supports. However, synthesis with desired remains challenge. Herein, hollow microrods were prepared for first time in NaCl/KCl molten salts by using titanium, aluminum, short carbon fibers starting materials. It was found that performed source acted sacrificial template. Furthermore, it revealed TiC initially formed surface fibers. subsequent reactions between outer Ti, Al inner dominated Kirkendall effect which gave rise to formation structure. Based this mechanism, microspheres series TiC, AlC, V successfully fabricated. This work provides facile route synthesize MAX phases may give enlightenment preparing other carbide via salts.