Synthesis of single crystals of V2AlC phase by high-temperature solution growth and slow cooling technique

Single-crystalline platelets of the nanolaminated V2AlC phase have been produced by high-temperature solution growth followed by a slow cooling process, with areas ranging from a few mm2 up to almost 1 cm2. Structural characterization confirms the single-crystalline character of the samples. The surface morphology of the V2AlC crystals is flat and devoid of dendrites. Well-defined steps and terraces indicate a step flow growth process. Emphasis is put on the mechanical cleavage of the samples which can be achieved in the basal plane thanks to the existence of the weakly bonded Al atomic planes. The cleavage surface exhibits terraces ending with a triangular shape and with a height equal to an integer number of half-lattice units.