Functionalized MXene composites for protection on metals in electric power

Metals used in electric power suffer from icing, wear, and corrosion problems, resulting in high energy consumption, economic losses, security risks, and increased CO₂ emission. To address these problems, researchers have turned to two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbide or nitride (MXene) materials, which possess strong near-infrared adsorption, photothermal conversion, shear ability, low friction coefficient, and impermeability. These properties make MXene a promising candidate for surface protection on metals in electric power, including anti-icing, anti-wear, and anti-corrosion applications. However, the comprehensively protective ability and the promising application of MXene in electric power have not yet been reported. In this review, recent progress in MXene-based composites for anti-icing, anti-wear, and anti-corrosion in electric power is summarized to understand the protective mechanisms and the promising applications. First, the chemical and structure of MXene are briefly introduced, followed by a summary of its intrinsic properties. Next, the latest research on deicing MXene composite coatings, anti-wear MXene-based composites and coatings, and anti-corrosive MXene coatings, along with the corresponding mechanisms, is discussed. Finally, the challenges and opportunities of MXene-based composites in electric power are highlighted. This review provides guidance for understanding the comprehensively protective abilities of MXene and rationally designing MXene-based materials used in electric power.