Shear properties and stable wrinkle resistance in 2D Ti<sub>3</sub>C<sub>2</sub>T<sub>x</sub> MXene monolayers.

Rong, Chao; Su, Ting; Yu, Tianhao; Wang, Xiaoyuan; Chu, Tianshu; Zhu, Mingliang; Yan, Yabin; Zhang, Bowei et al. · Nat Commun · 2026

biomechanical · Level V

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Abstract

Two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides or nitrides (MXenes), represented by Ti<sub>3</sub>C<sub>2</sub>T<sub>x</sub>, exhibit exceptional mechanical and electrical properties, making them ideal candidates in aerospace, structural membranes, and flexible electronics. Understanding the mechanical properties of 2D Ti<sub>3</sub>C<sub>2</sub>T<sub>x</sub> under various load conditions is crucial for ensuring structural integrity and performance reliability. Here, we conduct direct in-situ shear test of monolayer Ti<sub>3</sub>C<sub>2</sub>T<sub>x</sub> nanosheets using a push-to-shear strategy under the scanning electron microscope. Contrary to the expected ultra-low shear performance and wrinkle instability of 2D materials, we report a high in-plane shear modulus of 0.279 ± 0.007 TPa for single-crystal monolayer Ti<sub>3</sub>C<sub>2</sub>T<sub>x</sub>, along with stable wrinkle resistance. Additionally, the monolayer Ti<sub>3</sub>C<sub>2</sub>T<sub>x</sub> exhibits a shear strength as high as ~18.6 GPa and an average shear strain of ~8.6%. This work provides direct measurement of the intrinsic shear properties of monolayer Ti<sub>3</sub>C<sub>2</sub>T<sub>x</sub> and highlights the promising potential of Ti<sub>3</sub>C<sub>2</sub>T<sub>x</sub> in maintaining device performance and reliability.