Layered 2D MXenes: a promising alternative to conventional 2D materials

Abstract The rapid advent of nanotechnology has paved way for researchers to explore and harness the unique properties of nanomaterials across all dimensions. Among the various 2D nanomaterials that have gained attraction, MXenes have emerged as a potential alternative to conventional materials, owing to their exceptional electronic, thermal, and mechanical properties, as well as their tunability. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth analysis of layered 2D MXenes, their methods of synthesis, properties, applications, means of characterization, as well as potential areas of use. With their high surface area to volume ratio, MXenes exhibit enhanced reactivity and unique quantum phenomena. This makes them suitable for applications like energy storage, catalysis, environmental remediation, and optoelectronics. The paper also discusses the advantages of MXenes over traditional bulk materials. Additionally, the review also explores the multifaceted theoretical implications of MXenes in numerous fields. A thorough understanding of the current state of MXenes research is provided, which highlights that the functionalization of MXene surfaces and creation of hybrid materials has broadened horizons to tailor application-specific materials. Future directions for MXene development and integration into novel and state-of-the-art devices and technologies which focus primarily on sustainability, scalability, stability enhancement, advancement in large-scale production of single-crystal MXene films, and more, have also been studied.