Advancements and perspectives: MXene-based materials for high-performance aqueous zinc-ion batteries

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs), as a low-cost and highly safe energy storage technology, have garnered widespread attention in the field of energy storage in recent years due to their unique advantages. However, AZIBs still face critical challenges in practical applications, such as zinc anode dendrite growth, corrosion, and capacity fading of cathode materials, which hinder their commercialization process. MXenes, two-dimensional transition metal carbide/nitride materials, exhibit immense application potential in AZIBs due to their distinct physicochemical properties, including high conductivities, large specific surface areas, and abundant surface chemistry. This paper reviews the latest research progress of MXene-based materials in AZIBs, delving into the applications of MXenes in cathodes (including the use of pure MXene materials as conductive substrates and the construction of MXene-based derivatives such as composites and heterostructures), anodes (such as serving as carriers for zinc deposition, zincophilic substrates, and protective layers at the zinc metal interface), as well as in separators and electrolytes. Additionally, this review analyzes the modification strategies, performance optimization mechanisms, challenges faced, and future development directions of MXene-based materials. By summarizing existing research findings, this paper aims to provide theoretical guidance and practical references for the further application of MXenes in AZIBs.