Synergistic electrochemical behavior of MXene/carbon hybrids for high-performance zinc-ion batteries

MXenes have emerged as promising electrode materials for aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) owing to their high electrical conductivity, hydrophilic surfaces, and layered structures that enable efficient Zn 2+ ion transport. However, their practical application is hindered by challenges such as nanosheet restacking, surface oxidation, and insufficient long-term cycling stability. To address these limitations, extensive efforts have been devoted to constructing MXene/carbon (C) hybrid electrodes by integrating MXenes with C-based materials, including graphene, C nanotubes (CNTs), C nanofibers (CNFs), activated C, and porous carbons. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of recent progress in MXene/C composite electrodes for ZIBs, with particular emphasis on material design principles and synergistic electrochemical behavior. This review systematically summarizes synthesis strategies, structural engineering approaches, and charge-storage mechanisms of MXene/C hybrids, highlighting how dimensional compatibility, heteroatom doping, and porous architectures improve ion/electron transport, structural stability, and cycling durability. In addition, practical considerations such as scalable fabrication, electrolyte optimization, and full-cell configurations are discussed. Finally, the remaining challenges and future research directions for developing durable, high-performance MXene/C electrodes are outlined, aiming to guide the rational design of next-generation ZIB systems. The review article illustrates the synergistic role of MXene/C-based composites in enhancing the electrochemical performance of aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs). As shown, various C-based materials, such as graphene, activated C, porous C, CNTs, and C nanofibers (CNFs), are integrated with different kinds of MXenes (Ti-, V-, and Nb-based) to form multifunctional hybrid electrodes. The combination of highly conductive and structurally robust C components with the layered, hydrophilic MXenes effectively mitigates sheet restacking, promotes rapid ion/electron transport, and improves overall mechanical and structural stability. These synergistic effects result in superior charge-storage behavior and long-term cycling durability. The article highlights how the rational design of MXene/C hybrids serves as a promising strategy for advancing high-performance ZIBs. • MXene/C hybrids exhibit synergistic effects for high-performance Zn-ion batteries. • Carbon components mitigate MXene restacking and enhance ion/electron transport. • Structural engineering and heteroatom doping improve charge-storage dynamics. • Strategies for scalable fabrication and electrolyte optimization are discussed. • Future prospects for durable and sustainable MXene/C electrodes are proposed.