MXene Hydrogels for Soft Multifunctional Sensing: A Synthesis-Centric Review

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• MXenes, a decade-old class of transition metal carbon/nitride nanomaterials, exhibit unique electrical and mechanical properties.
• Their layered structure, biocompatibility, and hydrophilicity make them suitable for integration with hydrogels.
• Current research on MXene hydrogels for sensing applications is less understood compared to their use in surfaces or electrodes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the synthesis, properties, and applications of MXene hydrogels for intelligent wearable sensors.
• To analyze challenges and opportunities in the synthesis and practical adoption of MXene hydrogels.
• To foster interdisciplinary collaboration for advancing MXene-based multifunctional sensing hydrogels.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on MXene hydrogel synthesis and characterization.
• Analysis of MXene hydrogel properties relevant to wearable sensor applications.
• Discussion of current and potential applications of MXene hydrogels in sensing.

Main Results:

• MXenes' tunable conductivity and mechanical properties are advantageous for sensor development.
• Synergistic integration of MXenes with hydrogels enhances mechanoelectrical sensing capabilities.
• Significant potential exists for MXene hydrogels in personalized healthcare and human-machine interfaces.

Conclusions:

• MXene hydrogels represent a promising platform for next-generation intelligent wearable sensors.
• Further research is needed to overcome synthesis challenges and facilitate widespread adoption.
• Interdisciplinary efforts are crucial to unlock the full potential of MXene multifunctional sensing hydrogels.