MXenes for Infrared Thermal Management

Two-dimensional (2D) MXenes have recently emerged as a distinctive class of materials for advanced thermal management due to their combination of high electrical conductivity, broadband optical absorption, low or high infrared (IR) emissivity, efficient light-to-heat conversion, and anisotropic thermal conductivity. This review provides a thorough overview of MXene interaction with IR radiation and MXene-based thermal management strategies, emphasizing the fundamental mechanisms governing spectral response, heat generation, transfer, and radiative emission. We review recent progress in the development of MXene films, coatings, aerogels, fibers, and composites for applications such as ultrathin thermal insulation, IR camouflage, photothermal therapy, wound healing, solar water desalination, wearable heaters, deicing systems, soft actuators, and separation membranes. Finally, we address prevailing challenges and future research directions, offering perspectives to facilitate the advancement of next-generation MXene-based materials for advanced thermal management.