Dimensionally integrated hybrid films of Ti3C2Tx MXene and cellulose nanocrystals for high-performance supercapacitors

The use of low-dimensional materials in electrode fabrication is gaining popularity due to their distinctive properties. This study introduces a straightforward method for creating a dimensionally integrated hybrid film that combines Ti3C2Tx MXene (2D) with cellulose nanocrystals (1D). The resulting freestanding hybrid film exhibits a lamellar structure, held together by weak intermolecular forces between the components. This structure leads to marked improvements in both structural and electrochemical properties. These enhancements are primarily due to the incorporation of 1D materials, which act as spacers to prevent the self-restacking typical of 2D materials and aid in the formation of electrochemically active sites and channels. This improvement stems from the synergistic effects of the combined materials, optimized at the ideal concentration ratio. This study may guide the development of electrodes integrated with redox-active materials, potentially advancing ideal energy storage systems.