Recent advances in irradiation of MAX/MAB phases for nuclear energy systems

Ternary layered material MAX/MAB phases have become a highly promising candidate for fourth-generation nuclear energy systems, combining the excellent properties of metals and ceramics. This paper reviewed the irradiation response and resistance mechanisms of Ti/Cr/Zr/Nb/V/Ta-based MAX phases, doped/entropy-enhancing MAX phases, and MAB phases. The performance differences between the MAX/MAB phases under irradiation with neutrons, heavy ions, self-ions, He ions, protons, or electrons were investigated. Studies have confirmed that they possess high damage tolerance and resistance to amorphization. This is manifested in the following aspects: accommodating point defects through antisite defects and Frenkel defects; resisting amorphization via atomic rearrangement and crystalline transformation; capturing He atoms by the low-bond-energy A-layer and restricting the growth of He bubbles through M-X layers or B layers; inhibiting further diffusion and penetration of energetic particles; and achieving defect annihilation and damage recovery during high-temperature irradiation and annealing processes. Finally, scientific research strategies are proposed, including regulating MAX/MAB phases to achieve optimal entropy values, designing component structures based on electronegativity and lattice distortion, and investigating the synergistic effects of multiple irradiation particles. Additionally, prospects for the further development of MAX/MAB phases in nuclear energy systems are presented.