Laser Ablation of 2D Layered Materials to Synthesize Metastable Nanostructures

Pulsed Laser Ablation in Liquids (PLAL) is a technique for synthesizing high-purity, ligand-free nanomaterials with controlled size and morphology. This study focuses on the synthesis of MXene nanostructures (Ti₃C₂), by using a focused pulsed excimer laser at 193 nm and 2-4 J/cm ² (150 mJ at 5 Hz for 30 minutes). Using a 2 mm thick and 5 mm diameter Ti₃C₂ target in a solvent blend of deionized water and dodecyl sulfate dispersant, producing nanostructured MXenes under transient conditions of ~2,000 K temperature and 10⁷-10⁸ Pa pressure. The method minimizes contamination from precursors and byproducts, offering precise control over nanoparticle size and distribution while preserving structural integrity and functional properties. The synthesized MXenes were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) and revealed distinct morphologies such as wrinkled sheet-like structures like graphene oxide, uniform nanostructures consistent 2D flakes indicating a controlled synthesis that yields thin, uniform layers WS ₂ , and minimal synthesis damage: low defect density and minimal oxidation observed in EDS spectra. This study demonstrates the viability of PLAL method for producing high-quality MXene nanoparticles and provides a foundation for future innovations in nanomaterial synthesis for a wide range of other 2D technological applications.