Comparative study of predicted MAX phase Hf2AlN with recently synthesized Hf2AlC: a first principle calculations

The physical properties including thermodynamic and optical properties, electronic charge density, Fermi surface, Mulliken bond overlap population and Vickers hardness of newly synthesized MAX phase Hf2AlC and predicted Hf2AlN phase have been explored using density functional theory for the first time. We revisit lattice and elastic constants, band structure and density of states to weigh the reliability of our calculations. The mechanical and dynamical stabilities of these compounds have been ensured. The brittle nature of Hf2AlX (X = C and N) compounds is also confirmed by the Pugh (G/B > 0.57) and Poisson ratio (< 0.26). The electronic band structure and density of states show the metallic conductivity with foremost contribution of Hf-5d states at the Fermi level. The mixture of covalent, metallic and ionic bonding is ensured by Mulliken population and charge density mapping. Low Vicker hardness value indicates soft material and easily mechinable nature of the phases. The reflectivity curves show the maximum values of 93% at 10.3 eV and 99% at 13.7 eV for the compounds Hf2AlC and Hf2AlN, respectively, that endorse the capability of reducing solar heating of these compounds. Excellent correlations are also found in all physical properties of these compounds.

Automated summary

In this study, the physical properties of newly synthesized Hf2AlC and predicted Hf2AlN phases were explored using density functional theory for the first time. The compounds were found to exhibit metallic conductivity, low Vickers hardness, and high reflectivity, indicating their potential for reducing solar heating.