Low temperature atmospheric synthesis of WAlB and Mn2AlB2 MAB phases by modified molten salt shielded synthesis method

•Low temperature synthesis of WAlB MAB phase in an open atmosphere.•High yield (∼88 %) of WAlB phase at 900 °C by using modified MS3.•High yield (∼96 %) of Mn2AlB2 MAB phase at a much shorter soaking time (2 hr).