Molten salt shielded synthesis of the nanolaminated transition metal boride Fe2AlB2

Fe2AlB2 is one of many ternary transition metal borides called MAB phases, which attracted interest owing to its magneto-caloric effect and magnetic properties. Herein, the molten salt-shielded synthesis (MS3) of Fe2AlB2 powder is studied using potassium bromide "KBr" in an open-air atmosphere. The synthesis process of the MAB phase, from Fe, Al, and B elemental powders, was studied with and without Sn additive in the temperature range of 900-1200 degrees C. The obtained powders were analyzed using XRD, TDA, GTA, and SEM analysis. The corresponding results revealed a successful synthesis of nearly pure Fe2AlB2 phase at 1000 degrees C for only one hour of holding time, beyond which FeB impurities form. These results show the efficiency of KBr (with Sn as a synthesis aid "additive") in increasing the reactivity of this MAB phase in terms of the lowest synthesis temperature and time reported to date.