Tailoring MXene Surface Chemistry: Strategies, Mechanisms, and Functional Applications

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Electrochemistry

Background:

• MXenes, a class of 2D transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides, exhibit excellent metallic conductivity, hydrophilicity, and rich surface chemistry.
• Their unique properties make them promising for electrochemical energy storage, catalysis, and advanced sensing applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review recent advancements in MXene chemistry modulation.
• To emphasize the importance of surface terminations and interlayer engineering for tailoring MXene properties.
• To provide insights into rational design strategies for MXene-based materials.

Main Methods:

• Summarizing progress in advanced synthesis protocols for MXene production.
• Detailing post-synthetic modification techniques for MXene surface chemistry control.
• Analyzing the influence of etching, delamination, and intercalation on MXene characteristics.

Main Results:

• Discusses the impact of synthesis and modification strategies on MXene structural and electronic properties.
• Provides mechanistic insights into ion intercalation and surface functional group evolution.
• Highlights challenges such as batch variability, scalability, and understanding surface transformations.

Conclusions:

• Precise control over MXene surface chemistry and interlayer structure is crucial for unlocking their full application potential.
• Further research is needed to address challenges and advance MXene engineering for next-generation technologies.
• Tailored MXene interfaces are essential for developing advanced energy, catalysis, and flexible electronic systems.