MAB phase powders are the boron-based "siblings" of MAX phases — a family of atomically laminated, ternary transition metal borides. They serve as precursors for MBenes (two-dimensional transition metal borides), analogous to how MAX phases produce MXenes.

• MM: Transition metal (e.g., Mo, W, Cr, Mn, Fe)
• AA: Main-group element (predominantly Al, occasionally Zn)
• BB: Boron

MAB phases uniquely combine metallic conductivity with ceramic-like thermal stability, and — critically — many exhibit intrinsic magnetism, a property largely absent from MAX phases. Selective etching of the AA layer yields the corresponding MBenes.