Project Manufacturing and stability of novel nano inks Program Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate Research Program Term Summer 2025 Status Closed Research Area Design, manufacturing Description Our group designs and manufactures novel nano inks of 2D carbides, known as MXenes. Colloidal stability is essential for processing and manufacturing MXenes into thin films, coatings, and composites for various applications. However, MXenes are known to suffer from rapid oxidation due to hydrolysis. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the use of green solvents that are environmentally safe, non-toxic, and sustainable for the dispersion of nanomaterials. Green solvents offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional organic solvents, which are often hazardous and pose environmental risks. Ultraviolet-visible-near infrared (UV-Vis-NIR) spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique used to monitor the optical properties and colloidal stability of nanomaterials in solution. The goal of this research study is to test the colloidal stability of novel MXenes in green solvents and identify the characteristics of degradation over time. Supervisor Babak Anasori Mentor Type of work required Projects can be tailored to the interests and background of the students. Examples of typical learning opportunities include:
-Synthesis of novel two-dimensional MXenes
-Optimizing the synthesis conditions (reaction time, temperature)
-Understanding the colloidal stability of MXenes and studying the degradation over time Websites https://www.babakanasori.com Qualifications Passion and motivation for research Credit Hours 1 Weekly Hours 10 (estimated)