Background Sol-gel chemistry is a well-known technique that allows for shape processability of target phases, and can be used for the formation of metal oxide and ceramic nanoparticles. Sol-gel chemistry involves dispersing metal ions that are derived from water soluble precursor salts throughout a semi-solid matrix. This allows for assured homogeneity...

Microwave-assisted synthesis is a modern method of heating substances rapidly and with high energy efficiency. Applications in solid state chemistry is a growing field of research rapidly gaining popularity with microwave heating being used to synthesize a plethora of inorganic compounds. As a result of its time- and energy-efficiency, it can also...

­Background MAX phases are ternary carbides and nitrides with unique combinations of ceramic properties (e.g., resistance to high temperature, fatigue, and damage) and metallic properties (e.g., high electrical and thermal conductivity). They can be used, for example, as coatings for electronics operating under extreme conditions. Synthesis of MAX...

­Background MAX phases are ternary carbides and nitrides with unique combinations of ceramic properties (e.g., resistance to high temperature, fatigue, and damage) and metallic properties (e.g., high electrical and thermal conductivity). They can be used, for example, as coatings for electronics operating under extreme conditions. Synthesis of MAX...