A Research Platform Addressing Outstanding Research Challenges for Nanoscale Design and Engineering of Multifunctional 2D Materials

Emerging materials science and nanoscale engineering spawn extraordinary structures. During my ERC-StG, I discovered a new family of internally-ordered 3D atomic laminates that I coined i-MAX. More recently, these phases have been used to derive a new type of 2D solids, MXenes, with ordered vacancies.

Here, I consolidate research to establish a world-leading research environment with a mission to understand and exploit yet wider classes of unique functional materials; the next generation of 2D materials, beyond MXenes, from selective etching of recurring layers in 3D precursor solids.Fundamental investigations of this project have as objectives to:1) Use a theory-assisted search, including screening of open data bases, for design of new multifunctional 2D materials.2) Perform precise-controlled synthesis/derivation of novel 3D/2D materials based on chemical exfoliation.3) Explore nanoscale engineering and property tailoring, specifically targeting 2D materials for energy storage, catalysis, and magnetism.4) Provide proof-of-concept for novel materials in device applications.Research breakthroughs and corresponding societal impact are envisioned.

Pioneering a new generation of 2D materials holds exceptional potential for discoveries, for use in applications meeting global challenges pertaining to energy and environment, and beyond.