MXene based non-noble metal catalyst for overall water splitting in alkaline conditions

MXene, the two-dimensional transition metal carbide or nitride material, was first discovered in 2011. They possess superior characteristics such as stability, electric conductivity, and electrochemical properties, that make them attract the attention of the energy engineering field. Overall water splitting which generates hydrogen and oxygen, not only serves as a clean energy supply technology but also demonstrates the capacity for redistribution and integration of renewable energy. MXene based non-noble metal has demonstrated significant potential in terms of cost-effectiveness. Therefore, the current focus is implementing targeted regulation at the micro level to render it effective comparable to the precious metals. In this context, the mechanisms of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) under the influence of MXene can be elucidated in terms of electron and ion transfer processes, hydrogen coverage, and regulation of terminal groups. Certainly, the composition, structure, synthesis, and stability strategies of MXene are the subjects of comprehensive investigation from both theoretical calculations using density functional theory (DFT) and experimental perspectives. In addition, this review provides a comprehensive summary of MXene based non-noble metal and various modification methods. These methods encompass doping, vacancy engineering, hybrid structures, heterojunction formation, multi-scale engineering, surface engineering, and phase engineering. The review also presents suggestions for designing high-performance MXene based on non-noble metals. It offers guidance on employing construction strategies for electrocatalysts. By leveraging the unique properties and tunability of MXene and implementing these modification methods, researchers can enhance the catalytic activity, stability, selectivity, and efficiency of MXene based non-noble metal catalysts.