  Alumina forming, oxidation and thermal shock resistant MAX phases are of a
high interest for high temperature applications. Herein we report, on bonding
and resulting interactions between a Ni-based superalloy, NSA, and two alumina
forming MAX phases. The diffusion couples Cr${_2}$AlC/Inconel-718/Ti${_2}$AlC
were assembled and heated to 1000 or 1100{\deg}C in a vacuum hot press under
loads corresponding to stresses of either 2 MPa or 20 MPa. The resulting
interfaces were examined using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy
and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Good bonding between Cr${_2}$AlC and
NSA was achieved after hot pressing at 1000{\deg}C and a contact pressure of
only 2 MPa; in the case of Ti${_2}$AlC a higher temperature (1100{\deg}C) and
pressure (20 MPa) were needed. In both cases, a diffusion bond was realized
with no evidence of interfacial damage or cracking after cooling to room
temperature. Twenty thermal cycles from room temperature to 1000{\deg}C showed
that Ti${_2}$AlC is a poor oxidation barrier for Inconel-718. However, in the
case of Cr${_2}$AlC no cracks, delamination nor surface degradation were
observed, suggesting that this material could be used to protect Inconel-718
from oxidation.
