Effortless Production of Atomically-Thin Metal Layers for Innovative Technology

Scientists at the University of Chicago have discovered a new, easier, and less toxic method to create MXenes, atomically-thin metal layers that can be used for high-tech electronics or energy storage. MXenes are easily customizable and can be used to store energy by putting ions between the layers. The new method involves mixing several chemicals with the metal and heating the mixture at 1,700°F, making it more efficient and less toxic than the previous method. The discovery could pave the way for using MXenes in everyday electronics and devices.