MXenes as Versatile Materials for Hydrogen Technology and Multifunctional Applications.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science, Nanotechnology, Electrochemistry

Background:

• MXenes are 2D transition metal carbides/nitrides with high surface area, hydrophilicity, and conductivity.
• Their unique properties enable diverse applications in sensing, biomedicine, catalysis, and energy storage.
• MXenes are at the forefront of hydrogen generation and storage technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of MXene discovery, structure, and fabrication.
• To highlight MXene applications, focusing on electrocatalysis for hydrogen evolution and storage.
• To discuss MXene-derived photocatalysts for pollutant degradation.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on MXene synthesis and characterization.
• Analysis of MXene properties and their correlation with applications.
• Exploration of surface modification strategies for property enhancement.
• Investigation of MXene-derived Z-scheme photocatalysts.

Main Results:

• MXenes exhibit excellent potential in electrocatalysis for hydrogen evolution reactions.
• Diverse compositions and surface modifications enhance MXene properties for specific applications.
• MXene-derived photocatalysts show promise in degrading organic pollutants.
• Self-restacking and aggregation are identified challenges.

Conclusions:

• MXenes are promising materials for sustainable energy technologies, particularly in catalysis and storage.
• Further research is needed to address challenges like scale-up and production costs.
• Optimizing MXene structures and surface chemistry is key for future development.