Optimized size sorting of MXene particles via centrifugal sedimentation: a practical approach using an empirical model and image processing technique

Controlling the physical, mechanical, and electrochemical properties of MXene-based materials is crucial for their effectiveness in macroscale applications and is closely tied to the particle size distribution of MXene. This study aimed to accomplish dimensional control and sorting of MXene colloids with different particle sizes using centrifugal sedimentation based on an empirical model. Centrifuge time and rotating speed were identified as key parameters and optimized using a mathematical formula generated from the model, considering particle forces in the solution. A novel image processing technique aimed at ease of use was devised to evaluate the separation process, assuring the audience of its usability. The separation efficiencies were measured individually at rotating speeds ranging from 2900 to 6000 rpm. The optimal experimental settings differed between the supernatant and sediment fractions. The maximum separation efficiency was reached at 86% for the supernatant at 3500 rpm for 49 min and 43% for the sediment at 4200 rpm for 34 min, suggesting that supernatant-based separation is more efficient than sediment-based techniques. This study offers a valuable guideline for separating the sizes of 2D materials. Image processing offers scalable particle size measurement, which improves material property control for a variety of applications.

调控MXene基材料的物理、力学与电化学性能，对其在宏观尺度应用中的实际效能至关重要，且该性能与MXene的粒径分布紧密相关。本研究基于经验模型，采用离心沉降法实现不同粒径MXene胶体的尺寸调控与分选。研究将离心时间与转速确定为核心参数，并结合溶液中颗粒受力情况，通过模型推导的数学公式对其进行优化。为评估分选过程，本研究设计了一款旨在简化操作的新型图像处理技术，以证实该技术的实用性。研究分别在2900至6000转每分钟（rpm）的转速下测试了分选效率。上清液与沉降组分的最优实验参数存在差异：当转速为3500 rpm、离心时长49分钟时，上清液分选的最大效率可达86%；而当转速为4200 rpm、离心时长34分钟时，沉降组分分选的最大效率为43%，这表明基于上清液的分选方案比基于沉降组分的分选技术效率更高。本研究为二维材料的粒径分选提供了极具价值的参考指南。图像处理技术可实现可规模化的粒径测量，有助于提升多种应用场景下的材料性能调控水平。