A comprehensive review on MXenes for various applications

Two-dimensional (2D) MXenes, a new class of transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides, have emerged as highly adaptable nanomaterials due to their outstanding electrical conductivity, customizable surface terminations, and distinctive layered architecture. MXenes, like Ti 3 C 2 T x , have strong metallic conductivity, hydrophilicity, and mechanical flexibility, making them useful for energy storage, catalysis, sensing, and biomedicine. They are synthesized through selective etching of MAX phases. Their unique properties, high ion transport kinetics, and environmental stability make them ideal candidates for supercapacitors, Li/Na/Zn-ion batteries, solar cells, and beyond. MXenes' high surface area, adjustable chemistry, and photothermal characteristics make them excellent for applications in electrochemical sensing, water purification, and medicinal platforms, in addition to energy. Despite fast development, hurdles persist in scalable, green synthesis, long-term stability, and accurate surface engineering. MXene-based composites will be more useful in energy harvesting, environmental remediation, and advanced optoelectronics due to advancements in interlayer tuning and surface functionalization. This review provides a comprehensive overview of MXene production, structural features, and multifunctional applications, as well as key research directions for long-term development and integration into next-generation technologies.