Theoretical predictions on temperature-dependent strength for MAX phases

MAX phases have great application potential in high-temperature fields due to their unique combination of ceramic and metallic properties. In this work, a physics-based theoretical model is developed for the prediction of temperature-dependent strength of MAX phases, based on the force-heat equivalence energy principle. The quantitative relationship between the strength, Young's modulus, temperature, and melting point is revealed by the proposed model. Through the comparison between theoretical predictions of strength and available experimental results from the literature, the model is proved to be efficient in predicting the strength of MAX phases at high temperatures. Since the melting point and Young's modulus of material can be easily obtained, the proposed theoretical model provides a convenient and feasible method for predicting the temperature-dependent strength of MAX phases.