Emerging Horizons in Gas Sensing: Exploring the Potential of MXenes and MBenes

This review article is focused on the development and application of two types of emerging two-dimensional (2D) materials, namely MXenes and MBenes, in the field of gas detection. Owing to its excellent electrical conductivity, specific surface area, and tunable surface functionality, MXenes have demonstrated high sensitivity and rapid response in detecting a variety of gases, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and ammonia (NH₃). MBenes are relatively newly discovered materials with excellent electronic stability and gas adsorption capabilities. Both of these materials demonstrate significant potential in improving sensor selectivity and stability through surface functionalization and heterostructure designs. However, despite the impressive gas detection performance of these materials, challenges remain in achieving long-term stability, cost-effectiveness, and commercialization. We summarize the prominent research insights on these materials and offer an outlook on future research directions and potential applications. With ongoing research and technological advancements, MXenes and MBenes are anticipated to have a substantial impact in critical areas such as environmental monitoring and industrial safety.