Multifunctional Applications Enabled by Fluorination of Hexagonal Boron Nitride

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Two-dimensional (2D) materials offer unique properties compared to bulk materials.
• Chemical functionalization is key to tuning 2D material properties for advanced applications.
• Hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) is a chemically inert 2D ceramic with potential for functionalization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To chemically functionalize hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) using gas-phase fluorination.
• To investigate the impact of fluorine functionalization on hBN's properties and applications.
• To explore F-hBN's utility in thermofluids, lubrication, and microelectronics.

Main Methods:

• Gas-phase fluorination of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN).
• Characterization of fluorine-functionalized hBN (F-hBN) properties.
• Evaluation of F-hBN performance as a thermofluid additive and lubricant.

Main Results:

• Fluorine functionalization led to interlayer expansion and increased polar surface charges in hBN.
• F-hBN demonstrated over 75% enhancement in thermal conductivity and dispersibility.
• F-hBN reduced friction by 31% and wear by 71% in steel tribological contacts.
• F-hBN exhibited a permanent dipole moment, indicating microelectronic potential.

Conclusions:

• Chemical functionalization of hBN significantly enhances its properties and expands its application range.
• F-hBN shows promise as a high-performance additive for thermofluids and lubricants.
• The permanent dipole moment of F-hBN opens possibilities for microelectronic devices and composite materials.