Technical Specifications:
- Material: Niobium Aluminum Carbide (Nb₂AlC) MAX Phase
- Purity: 99% or higher
- Particle Size: 325 Mesh (approximately 44 microns or finer)
- Shape: Typically plate-like or hexagonal crystals, characteristic of the MAX phase structure
- Density: Approximately 6.5 g/cm³
- Melting Point: Approximately 3,600°C (6,512°F)
- Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
Chemical Composition:
- Niobium (Nb): ~58%
- Aluminum (Al): ~17%
- Carbon (C): ~25%
Applications:
1. High-Performance Ceramics:
- Niobium Aluminum Carbide (Nb₂AlC) is part of the MAX phase materials, which combine metal-like conductivity with ceramic-like hardness. Nb₂AlC is used in high-performance ceramics for applications that require exceptional thermal stability, abrasion resistance, and strength.
- It is used in the production of cutting tools, wear-resistant coatings, and engine components exposed to high temperatures and mechanical stress in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and nuclear power.
2. High-Temperature Applications:
- Nb₂AlC exhibits remarkable resistance to thermal shock and oxidation at elevated temperatures, making it suitable for use in high-temperature applications. The MAX phase properties ensure excellent thermal stability, making it ideal for use in furnace linings, kilns, heat exchangers, and reactor components.
- It is used in industries like metallurgy, glass manufacturing, and chemical processing, where parts need to endure extreme heat and thermal cycling.
3. Wear-Resistant Coatings:
- Nb₂AlC is used to produce wear-resistant coatings due to its high hardness and strength. The 325 mesh powder is ideal for thermal spraying or plasma spraying to create protective coatings for components like cutting tools, machinery parts, engine components, and valves.
- These coatings help to enhance the service life of parts exposed to abrasion, erosion, and high friction conditions in industries such as mining, oil and gas, and automotive.
4. Electronics and Electrical Conductivity:
- Nb₂AlC exhibits metallic conductivity while retaining ceramic-like properties. This makes it suitable for electronic applications where a balance between conductivity and strength is required.
- It is being explored for high-performance capacitors, electrodes, and electronic contacts that need high electrical conductivity, thermal stability, and mechanical strength. These properties make Nb₂AlC useful in high-power devices, power electronics, and sensors.
5. Structural Materials:
- Niobium Aluminum Carbide is employed as a structural material in demanding applications where strength, thermal stability, and corrosion resistance are crucial. Nb₂AlC is used in structural components for aerospace, automotive, and military applications where lightweight yet durable materials are required.
- Its combination of metal and ceramic properties gives it outstanding performance in environments subjected to high stress, temperature, and harsh chemical conditions.
6. Thermal Management:
- Nb₂AlC’s high thermal conductivity and low coefficient of thermal expansion make it an ideal material for thermal management applications. It is used in heat sinks, thermal interface materials, and radiators to efficiently dissipate heat in electronic devices and power electronics.
- The material’s resistance to oxidation and stability at high temperatures ensure effective thermal regulation in high-performance systems like LEDs, semiconductors, and power converters.
7. Catalysis and Chemical Processes:
- Niobium Aluminum Carbide is being explored for use as a catalyst or catalyst support in various chemical processes such as hydrogenation and oxidation due to its high thermal stability and ability to facilitate chemical reactions.
- Its porosity and surface area make it suitable for applications in refining, petrochemical processes, and environmental technologies such as fuel cells and catalytic converters.
8. Biomedical Applications:
- Nb₂AlC’s biocompatibility and wear resistance have led to research into its use in biomedical devices such as implants, prosthetics, and surgical instruments. Its corrosion resistance and durability make it suitable for long-term use in the body, particularly in areas exposed to high mechanical stress.
- The strength and lightweight nature of Nb₂AlC are ideal for orthopedic implants and dental applications that require biocompatibility and long-lasting performance.
9. Composites and Reinforced Materials:
- Nb₂AlC can be used as a reinforcing phase in ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) and metal matrix composites (MMCs). It enhances the strength, fracture toughness, and thermal conductivity of these composite materials, making them ideal for use in aerospace, automotive, and defense industries.
- The material is also used to improve the thermal stability and resistance to corrosion of composite materials used in high-performance applications.
10. Research and Development:
- Nb₂AlC is a focus of research in fields like materials science, nanotechnology, and advanced ceramics. Researchers explore its potential in the development of high-temperature superconductors, nanocomposites, and next-generation energy storage devices.
- Researchers are investigating Nb₂AlC for use in advanced technologies for industries like electronics, aerospace, energy storage, and environmental sustainability.
Summary:
Niobium Aluminum Carbide (Nb₂AlC) MAX Phase Micron Powder (325 Mesh, Purity: 99+%) is a high-performance material known for its unique combination of metal-like conductivity and ceramic-like hardness. It is used in a variety of high-performance applications including wear-resistant coatings, high-temperature components, electrical devices, catalysis, and biomedical implants. The fine particle size ensures excellent dispersion in composite materials, nanotechnology applications, and electronic systems. Nb₂AlC’s exceptional properties make it indispensable in industries requiring materials capable of withstanding extreme mechanical stress, high temperatures, and harsh chemical environments.
