Ti2AlC is a member of vdW MAX layered material system. Similar to graphite and MoS2, the MAX phases are layered and have the general formula: Mn+1AXn, (MAX) where n = 1 to 3, M is an early transition metal, A is an non-metal elements and X is either carbon and/or nitrogen. In this particular case, M=Ti, A=Al, and X=C with n=2.