How a 2D Material is Revolutionizing Lubrication and Reducing Global Energy Consumption
Friction is a force so familiar we rarely contemplate its enormous global cost. Surprisingly, nearly 20% of the world's total primary energy consumption is expended simply in overcoming friction, with an additional 3% lost to wear-related repairs and replacements 1 .
Lost to friction annually - equivalent to hundreds of exajoules
From wear-related repairs and component replacements
This translates to hundreds of exajoules of energy annually—a staggering inefficiency that represents both a problem and an opportunity 1 . For decades, scientists have sought better lubricants to reduce this waste, and now, a revolutionary class of two-dimensional materials called MXenes is emerging as a potential game-changer.
These materials combine exceptional strength with naturally slippery properties, offering the prospect of significant energy savings across industries from aerospace to everyday machinery.
MXenes represent a revolutionary family of two-dimensional materials that have been turning heads in the scientific community since their discovery at Drexel University in 2011. The name "MXene" (pronounced "max-een") reflects their structural heritage—they're derived from a family of ceramics called MAX phases, with the "-ene" suffix highlighting their layered structure similar to graphene 1 6 .
Layered ceramic precursors containing M, A, and X elements
Chemical removal of A layers using HF or similar etchants
Formation of atomically thin transition metal carbides/nitrides
2D sheets with weak van der Waals forces between layers
Mixes well with water and polar solvents
Excellent electrical and thermal conductivity
Surface functional groups can be customized
The exceptional tribological performance of MXenes stems from their unique atomic architecture and tunable surface chemistry. At the heart of their lubricating ability lies a layered structure with weak van der Waals forces between adjacent layers 3 .
| Material | Friction Reduction | Wear Reduction | Temperature Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| MXenes | Up to 46% | >80% | 400°C |
| Graphene | 30-40% | 60-70% | 600°C |
| MoS₂ | 25-35% | 50-60% | 350°C |
| Conventional Oils | 15-25% | 30-40% | 200°C |
Weak van der Waals forces allow sheets to slide easily
Continuous films prevent metal-to-metal contact
Surface reactions create robust tribofilms
Functional groups can be customized for specific conditions
Researchers recently tackled one of the most challenging problems in lubrication: maintaining effective friction and wear protection across an enormous temperature range, from room temperature to 800°C .
The Ag@Ti₃C₂Tₓ composite coating maintained superior performance across the entire temperature spectrum, demonstrating the synergistic effect of combining MXenes with silver for high-temperature applications .
Advancing MXene tribology requires a specialized collection of materials and methods. The following essential reagents and equipment form the foundation of research in this burgeoning field:
Ternary layered compounds like Ti₃AlC₂, Ti₂AlC, and Mo₂TiAlC₂ that serve as starting materials for MXene synthesis .
Compounds like tetramethylammonium hydroxide to separate MXene layers into single- or few-layer nanosheets 1 .
Silanes, phosphonates, and organic molecules to modify MXene surfaces for enhanced compatibility 3 .
Despite their remarkable potential, MXenes face several significant challenges on the path to widespread commercialization. Oxidation susceptibility remains a primary concern, particularly at elevated temperatures where MXenes can degrade, losing their lubricity and structural integrity .
Medical implants and devices
High-temperature components
Engine and transmission systems
With continued research addressing current limitations and exploring new opportunities, MXenes may well become essential components in our ongoing quest to reduce friction and wear in an increasingly technological world.