(564g) Life Cycle Assessment of Ti?C? MXene: Sustainable Manufacturing Pathways for Chemical and Energy Systems

Ti₃C₂ MXene, a two-dimensional transition metal carbide, is a promising material for next-generation chemical and energy systems, with applications in energy storage, water purification, and electromagnetic shielding. This study performs a detailed Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of Ti₃C₂ to evaluate its environmental impacts across the production lifecycle, utilizing the ecoinvent 3.9.1 database and OpenLCA software. Critical stages, including titanium and aluminum extraction, MAX phase synthesis, HF and HCl etching, and post-etching treatments, were examined, with energy-intensive processes such as high-temperature synthesis and centrifugation identified as key contributors to the environmental footprint. To advance sustainable manufacturing, strategies such as energy optimization, the use of safer etching alternatives, and recycling of chemicals are proposed. By comparing the environmental performance of Ti₃C₂ to other advanced materials, this study offers a framework for integrating sustainability into the production of Ti₃C₂ MXene, providing insights for researchers, industries, and policymakers to guide responsible manufacturing practices in chemical and energy applications.