MAX phases represent a large group of carbide‐ and nitride‐layered ternary compounds. Their general formula is M_n+1AX_n, where n = 1–3, M is an early transition metal, A is an A‐group element, and X is either carbon or nitrogen. The MAX phases combine properties of metals (good electrical and thermal conductivity, machinability, low hardness, thermal shock resistance, and damage tolerance) with those of ceramics (high elastic moduli, temperature strength, and oxidation and corrosion resistance). Publications on MAX phases have increased considerably in recent years. A late development causing heightened interest in MAX phases is the possibility by which these can be selectively etched to MXenes by removal of the A‐group element. In view of optimizing properties for prospective applications, the synthesis protocols of some of the most common carbide and nitride MAX phases are reviewed. Characterization of their physical, mechanical, and corrosion/oxidation properties is also discussed. Recent developments have revealed the potential for further practical application and have led to accessible strategies to synthesize new MAX phases using the pressure‐less sintering, spark plasma sintering, or molten salt routes.

中文翻译：

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最常见的分层碳化物和氮化物MAX相的合成方案

MAX相代表大量的碳化物和氮化物层三元化合物。它们的通式为M _{n +1} AX _n，其中n= 1-3，M为早期过渡金属，A为A-族元素，X为碳或氮。MAX相结合了金属的特性（良好的电导率和导热性，可加工性，低硬度，耐热冲击性和耐损伤性）与陶瓷的特性（高弹性模量，温度强度以及抗氧化性和耐腐蚀性）。近年来，有关MAX阶段的出版物大量增加。最近的发展引起人们对MAX相的关注，这是可以通过去除A组元素将其选择性刻蚀成MXene的可能性。考虑到针对预期应用的最佳性能，对一些最常见的碳化物和氮化物MAX相的合成方案进行了综述。表征其物理，机械，还讨论了腐蚀/氧化性能。最近的发展揭示了进一步实际应用的潜力，并导致了使用无压烧结，火花等离子体烧结或熔融盐路线合成新的MAX相的可行策略。