Recent developments in 2D MXene-based materials for next generation room temperature NO₂ gas sensors

MXenes with distinctive structures, good electrical conductivity and abundant functional groups have shown great potential in the fabrication of high performance gas sensors. Since the sensing mechanism of MXene-based gas sensors often involves a surface-dominant process, they can work at room temperature. In this regard, a significant amount of research has been carried out on MXene-based room temperature gas sensors and they can be viewed as one of the possible materials for NO₂ sensing applications in the future. In this review, we focus on the most recent research and improvements in pure MXenes and their nanocomposites for NO₂ gas sensing applications. First, we have explored the mechanisms involved in MXenes for NO₂ gas sensing. Following that, other ways to tune the MXene sensing performance are investigated, including nanocomposite formation with metal oxides, polymers, and other 2D materials. A comparative analysis of the RT NO₂ sensor performance based on MXenes and their hybrids is provided. We also discuss the major challenges of using MXene-related materials and the areas that can further advance in the future for the development of high-performance room temperature NO₂ gas sensors.