Current Trends in MXene-Based Nanomaterials for Energy Storage and Conversion System: A Mini Review

Abstract

MXene is deemed to be one of the best attentive materials in an extensive range of applications due to its stupendous optical, electronic, thermal, and mechanical properties. Several MXene-based nanomaterials with extraordinary characteristics have been proposed, prepared, and practiced as a catalyst due to its two-dimensional (2D) structure, large specific surface area, facile decoration, and high adsorption capacity. This review summarizes the synthesis and characterization studies, and the appropriate applications in the catalysis field, exclusively in the energy storage systems. Ultimately, we also discussed the encounters and prospects for the future growth of MXene-based nanomaterials as an efficient candidate in developing efficient energy storage systems. This review delivers crucial knowledge within the scientific community intending to design efficient energy storage systems.

1. Introduction

Two-dimensional layered materials have substantial research due to their amazing structural [1,2,3], mechanical [4], electronic [5,6], and optical properties [7]. Apart from graphene, transition metals dichalcogenides (TMDs), phosphorene, and their derivatives are illustrations of the extreme examined 2D materials. The finding of 2D-layered titanium carbide powder (Ti₃C₂), the first candidate of the MXene family, in 2011 has unique structural and electronic features, permitting their usage on numerous possible applications [8,9].

MXenes are the latest group of 2D transition metal carbides, carbonitrides, and nitrides. The MXenes (M_n+1X_nT_x, whereas M refers to Sc, V, Cr, Ti, Zr, Mo, Nb, Hf, Ta; X refers to nitrogen or carbon, and T refers to -OH, -O, and -F) can be prepared by selective etching of (Al, Cd, Si, P, S, Ga, As, Ge, In, Sn, Ti, Pb elements) layers from three-fold metal nitrides and carbides (MAX phase). Usually, M_n+1AX_n (MAX) phases are the starting compounds, and MXenes are formed by specifically etching the A layers, where A denotes Al or Si (Figure 1). Major properties have since been reported, such as graphene-like layered structure, hydrophilicity, electrical conductivity, and flexibility. Nearly 30 combinations of materials have been previously produced, and so many were projected hypothetically [10,11].

MXenes have been broadly studied for their applications in numerous fields; for example, MXenes have been researched as new materials for Li-ion batteries (LIBs), electrodes, supercapacitors, hydrogen storage, adsorption, and catalysts [12,13]. In this review, we systematically present the techniques to synthesize MXene-based catalysts, followed by crucial comments and probable solutions. We then concisely reviewed the investigation methods that were related to applications in the catalysis field and solely in the energy storage and conversion systems [14,15,16,17,18,19,20]. Also, the structure and stability of MXenes are discussed concentrating on the morphological, optical, and electronic properties followed by some of the utmost favorable applications, such as batteries, proton reduction, supercapacitors, CO₂ conversion, and oxygen reduction. At last, a lookout for forthcoming research is suggested from the recent research confronts. Also, we assume that the upcoming research employs this study as a particular direction to relate, examine, and enlarge MXenes acquaintance. Recently, MXene based nanomaterials have emerged as a popular trend towards potential applications such as LIBs, supercapacitor, sensing, and biosensing. Therefore, a mini-review is provided to the materials science community, as an intense, quick, and significant indication on the investigational progress of MXenes research, signifying their present status, challenges, and trends.

2. Synthesis and Characterization of MXenes

2.1. Synthesis

2.1.1. Synthesis Method

The MAX phase (under the inert gas flowing or solid in a vacuum) has been synthesized via pressureless sintering (PLS) method (low-cost). Commonly MAX phase (without any pressure aid through sintering route) was prepared by this method as hot isostatic pressing (HIP) and hot press (HP) [21]. The approach of exfoliation is applied to preparation MXene from the MAX phase (discriminant etching layers of A-group elements in the MAX phase by an HF solution as the etchant) [22]. Another general method—vacuum filtration—is used to fabricate thin films of MXene materials. Initially, MXene materials are dispersed. Then, a vacuum pump is utilized to suck the diffusion to go via a filter. After solvent-passing via the filter, the film or membrane created of MXene materials will form [23].

One-or few-layer MXene nanosheets, which preserves the crystal structure and properties obtained via exfoliation method. Next, the adaptability and low cost of this method make it highly well-liked for synthesizing MXene materials and tremendously suitable for original research. MXene materials are produced by ball-milling with the assistance of liquid surfactants or solid exfoliation agents, as ball-milling of materials (bulk precursor) regularly manufactures nanosized particles owing to high-energy collisions [24].

In this liquid-phase impregnation method, the loading solution is mixed with the mesoporous material, and then the solvent is evaporated. The incipient wetness impregnation method refers to impregnation using a solution with a volume equal to the pore volume of the materials [25].

Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) is a procedure in which the substrate is exposed to one or more unpredictable precursors, which respond and decay on the substrate surface to create the needed thin film deposition [26]. Spark plasma sintering (SPS) is a new technique that uses pressure-driven powder consolidation in which a pulsed direct electric current passes via a sample squeezed in a graphite matrix. It is too identified as field-assisted or pulse electric current sintering [27].

Transition metal atoms into a perovskite (host) lattice throughout the preparation in oxidizing atmospheres, and the surface as nanosized metallic particles under reducing conditions have been prepared by in-situ growth [28]. Deposits of one monolayer of metal carbide (MXene) onto an mTMDC (monolayer transition metal dichalcogenide), and to subsequently oxidize the top-layer metal atoms was approached by atomic layer deposition (ALD) [29].

Diverse MXenes can be constructed by Acid etching (HF etching) at room temperature to different temperatures by regulating the concentration of HF and reaction time. HF is a wildly discriminating etchant that is still competent in removing various polytypes of SiC. The etching is a kinetically inhibited development, and each MXene wants a dissimilar etching time to attain an entire conversion. Regularly MXenes with larger n in M_n+1C_nT_x needs sturdy etching and/or a longer etching time [30,31].

2.1.2. MXene Preparation

The MXene sheets consisting of Al-containing MAX phases can be synthesized using hydrofluoric acid (HF) as an etching solution. For instance, Ti₃AlC₂ (2.0 g) was gradually added to 40 mL of 40% HF solutions and the reaction mixture was mixed using a stirrer at 60 °C for 18 h. The solids in the solution were gathered by centrifuging, washed with double distilled water, and lyophilized. During the synthesis, the subsequent reaction mechanism was followed:

Ti₃AlC₂ + 3HF → Ti₃C₂ + AlF₃ + 3/2H₂

Ti₃C₂ + 2H₂O → Ti₃C₂(OH)₂ + H₂

Ti₃C₂ + 2HF → Ti₃C₂F₂ + H₂

The etching conditions (HF concentration and time) that were necessary to change a given MAX phase differ extensively, depending on the temperature and particle size. For example, decreasing the particle size of the MAX phase by ball milling can efficiently reduce the essential etching time and the strength of HF [32,33]. Besides, divergences in M-Al bond energies for dissimilar MAX phases also need different etching conditions. For instance, the greater Ti-Al bond energy in Ti₂AlC likened with the Nb-Al bond energy in Nb₂AlC leads to an increased HF concentration and extended etching time [34]. Therefore, suitable etching conditions are required to accomplish greater yields and finish the exchange of Mxenes from MAX phases. Recently, Halim et al. projected the usage of ammonium bifluoride (NH₄HF₂) as an etchant in place of the harmful HF [35].

Ghidiu et al. described the latest greater-yield process for the prompt synthesis of numerous MXene sheets [36]. Herein, they prepared Ti₃C₂Tx by dissolving Ti₃AlC₂ powders in hydrogen chloride (HCl) and lithium fluoride (LiF) solutions, and then heated the mixture for 45 h at 40 °C. Afterward, the product was collected by washing the sediments thoroughly to eliminate the side products and increased the pH. Moreover, various Ti₂CT_x morphologies were achieved via using specific surfactants (i.e., centyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide (DTAB), tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide (TTAB), stearyltrimethylammonium bromide (STAB), dioctadecyldimethlylammonium chloride (DDAC)), and intercalating agents (i.e., p-phosphonic calix[n]arenes) throughout the ultrasonication step. In this process, the ring size of the surfactant controlled the morphology of MXene (crumpled sheets, plates, spheres, and scrolls, correspondingly with n = 4, 5, 6, or 8). The preparation and separation of ultrathin 2D Ti₃C₂ nanosheets were attained by a liquid exfoliation process blending HF etching and tetrapropylammonium hydroxide (TPAOH) insertion [16].

Though many investigates are insisting on getting a well-regulated morphology, lateral sizes, architecture, and also a termination group production procedure, other methods were used for MXene nanocomposite preparation. For instance, Mn₃O₄ nanoparticles sustained on layered Ti₃C₂ MXene (Mn₃O₄/MXene nanocomposite) have been prepared by the ultra-sonication method [37]. Hierarchical Ti₃C₂ QDs/Cu₂O nanowires/Cu heterostructures were prepared via a simple self-assembly strategy [38]. Arranging g-C₃N₄ nanosheets with Ti₃C₂ MXene nanocomposites were synthesized via the interface electrostatic interaction method [39]. Construct MXene/CuO nanocomposite was prepared by the thermal decomposition method [40]. The multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) patterned with MoS₂ quantum dots (MoS₂ QDs), and Ti₃C₂T_x QDs (MoS2QDs@Ti3C2TxQDs@MWCNTs) were prepared by the hydrothermal method [41].

MXene Ti₃C₂ nanosheets were synthesized via hot-pressed sintering technique using concentrate HF solution with various calcination temperatures (400, 600, and 800 °C) [21]. Mo-based MXenes were fabricated by vacuum-assisted filtration method [23]. Michael et al. have fabricated titanium carbide MXene via the hydrothermal method. MXene nanosheets terminated with different functional groups using post-processing techniques [42]. Ling et al. have prepared MXene with polymer [Polydiallyidimethyl ammonium chloride (PDDA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)] composites using the HF etching method [31]. MXene/graphene oxide fiber was prepared by a liquid crystal assisted fiber spinning technique [43]. MXene/rGO fibers have prepared via the wet-spinning assembly method [44]. Synthesis of Ti₃C₂T_x MXene via ball milling has reported by Ghidhu et al. [38]. Li et al. have demonstrated the MXene with electrochemically exfoliated graphene by solution processing method [45].

2.2. Characterization

The XRD pattern of prepared MXene, which are well-matched with the characteristic structure of synthesized Ti₃C₂ MXene. Supplementary peaks were observed in the Mn₃O₄/MXene XRD pattern, implying Mn₃O₄ particles are formed on MXene [46]. The XRD pattern displays the fabrication of Ti₃AlC₂ MAX phase. The intensity of the peaks originated from the parent Ti₃AlC₂ bulk consecutively reduced after HF etching and TPAOH intercalation [47]. Heterostructures with Ti₃C₂ QDs or Ti₃C₂ sheets related peaks (Figure 2a) represent an amorphous carbon signal nearby 24° [48]. Ti₃C₂ nanoparticles designate diffraction peaks at 9.2, 18.4, and 27.6°, corresponding to the (0 0 2), (0 0 4), and (0 0 8) reflections, correspondingly. Additionally, the transformation of Ti₃AlC₂ to Ti₃C₂ nanoparticles is further affirmed by the vanishing of the sturdiest peak of diffraction at 39.2° of Ti₃AlC₂ and the lower shift of the (0 0 4) peaks [49]. Diffraction peaks matching to both MXene and CuO were viewed in the pattern of MXene/CuO nanocomposite (Figure 2b), and the peak intensity increased with the increased content of CuO, demonstrating the fabrication of the MXene/CuO composite [50]. The clear peak at 2θ of 26.2° in the XRD pattern of the Ti3C2Tx QDs resembles the restacking of graphene layers [51]. The stretching vibration at 3400, 725, and 1050 cm⁻¹ were allocated to be O-H, C=O, and C-O. The detected OH groups reveal the high hydrophilic property of MXene and Mn₃O₄/MXene. The structure of MXene reveals by the vibration peak of Ti-O bond appeared at 665 cm⁻¹ [46]. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, where the peaks at 1629.2, 1028.6, and 561.4 cm⁻¹ relate to the modes of stretching vibration for C=O, C-F, and Ti-O groups grafted onto Ti₃C₂ during synthesis (Figure 2c). Raman spectra of Ti₃AlC₂ and Ti₃C₂ nanosheets, the disappearance of the vibration modes ω₂, ω₃, and ω₄ due to treatment with HF indicates the elimination of the Al layer or the interchange of the Al atoms with additional atoms. Mode ω₅ has downshifted and worsened, whereas the mode ω₆ has been mixed and repressed, which designates the well-preserved Ti₃C₂ layer and the increment of interlayer spacing for the structure of MXene [47]. Self-assembly of Ti₃C₂ samples on Cu₂O NWs/Cu is demonstrated by Raman signals at 1383 and 1612 cm⁻¹ that are in agreement with the D and G bands of Ti₃C₂ samples (Figure 2d) [48]. XPS result for the nanosheets of Ti₃C₂ reveals the existence of Ti (IV), TiC_xO_y, and intrinsic Ti–C bond, which designates the growth of TiO₂ or Ti₃C₂(OH)₂ [47]. Successful fabrication of Cu₂O NWs/Cu mesh, Ti₃C₂ sheets/Cu₂O NWs/Cu, and Ti₃C₂ QDs/Cu₂O NWs/Cu heterostructures is also validated by the presence of Cu 2p, Ti 2p, and C 1s peaks in the high-resolution XPS [48]. The Ti 2p spectrum displayed in Figure 2e is intricated into six components incorporating the peaks at 461.3 and 455.0 eV assigned to Ti-C 2p_1/2 and Ti-C 2p_3/2 and also the peaks at 464.7 and 459.1 eV assigned to Ti-O 2p_1/2 and Ti-O 2p_3/2, correspondingly. The peaks at 462.5 and 456.5 eV are attributed to Ti−X (Ti²⁺), which resembles the sub-stoichiometric TiC or titanium oxycarbides [49]. The presence of C–Ti bonds at 282.2 eV in the high-resolution spectra of C 1s demonstrated the retained structure of MXene after hybridization with CuO. The two main binding energy peaks at 932.7 and 952.6 eV with the splitting peak of 19.9 eV in the high-resolution spectrum of Cu 2p could be ascribed to Cu 2p_3/2 and Cu 2p_1/2, consistently. Moreover, there are also the satellite peaks at 944.2 and 962.6 eV which later corroborated the presence of Copper oxide. The peaks at 284.0 and 285.0 eV also communicate to C–C/C=C and C-O, collected with the peak at 285.8 and 287.8, which are assigned to the C-OH and COOH groups (Figure 2f) [50,51,52].

3. Fundamental Properties of MXene with Relevance in Energy Storage System

3.1. Electronic and Electrical Properties

Electronic and electrical properties are in the center of energy storage systems. The electrical and electronic properties of MXene can be tailored by modification of functional groups, solid-solution configuration, or stoichiometry. According to scientific methods, electric conductivity values of MXenes pressed discs were identical with multi-layered graphene (resistance values from 22Ω to 339Ω, relying on the “n” index and its molecular formula), and were greater compared to 0.1 mg/mL CNTs (Carbon nanotubes) and 1 wt% RGO (Reduced graphene oxide) materials [8,14]. It has also been noticed that the resistance of MXenes highly depends on the number of layers and type of functional group. It increases with a higher number of layers [34,53,54,55,56].

Table 1. Summary of the various MXene nanocomposites with the method of synthesis for electrical conductivity.

Sample	Method of Synthesis	Electrical Conductivity (S/cm)	Ref.
Ti3C2	Hot press sintering	850	[21]
Ti3C2 @400 °C		1430	[21]
Ti3C2 @600 °C		2410	[21]
Mo2CTx	Vacuum-assisted filtration method	1.2	[23]
(Mo2Ti)C2Tx		1494	[23]
(Mo2Ti2)C3Tx		614	[63]
Ti3C2Tx		2410	[63]
Ti3C2Tx (100%)	Hydrothermal	4556	[64]
99% MXene/1% rGO		3326	[64]
95% MXene/5% rGO		2261	[65]
90% MXene/10% rGO		1231	[65]

summarizes the electrical conductivity of numerous MXenes and composites prepared by different methods. It has been observed that the electrical conductivity of Ti₃C₂T_x differed from 850 to 9880 S.cm⁻¹ [57,58]. The variation in electrical conductivity is assumed due to the alterations on the (i) surface functional groups, (ii) defect concentration, (iii) delamination yield, (iv) lateral sizes, and (v) d-spacing between MXenes flakes provoked by each method of etching. Generally, poor concentrations of HF and shorter etching times produce MXenes with reduced imperfections and larger lateral sizes, rendering greater electrical conductivities. Surrounding environments, mainly humidity, might also affect their conductivities, facing in the direction of applications of comparative humidity sensing material [59,60,61]. Surface modification is an important tool to enhance the electrical properties of MXenes via thermal and alkaline processes. In particular, surface modification processes result, in addition or part of functional groups (specifically—F), and intercalating molecules. Many details about electronic structures of MXenes and correlated features are reported in a current review work of Hantanasirisakul et al. [62].

From Table 1, MXene based composites by hydrothermal method show good electrical properties (electrical conductivity, resistivity, etc.) and also highly useful in many applications such as sensors and screens.

3.2. Morphological Properties

The lattice parameter of surface-functionalized Ti₃C₂ increases after insertion and delamination. Nevertheless, their work was separated MXenes layers of 20–50 nm thickness and length 44–90 µm. Additionally, soon after ultrasonication in DMSO, these MXenes were scattered in deionized water to develop an aqueous solution with colloidal property, later filtered to get MXene “paper” [53].

In another study, Ti₃C₂ Quantum Dots (QDs)/ Cu₂O NWs composites were prepared. Coating by Ti₃C₂ QDs does not modify the complete morphology of Cu₂O NWs but shields the porous surfaces (Figure 3). Effective deposition of Ti₃C₂ QDs was also established by elemental mapping. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) morphological analysis confirmed that plentiful Ti₃C₂ QDs were consistently immobilized on Cu₂O NWs with close contact. It was also proved by the identical spreading of C, Ti, Cu, and O elements disclosed by elemental mapping [48].

The SEM images of MoS₂QDs@Ti₃C₂T_xQDs@MWCNTs-2 nanocomposite only displays nanotube-like structure, in which the Ti₃C₂T_x QDs and MoS₂ QDs were not noticed, retaining to their ultra-small sizes. In turn, its precise surface structure, the TEM images of MoS₂ QDs, Ti₃C₂T_x QDs, and MoS₂QDs@Ti₃C₂T_xQDs@MWCNTs-2 were probed [51]. Mn₃O₄ nanoparticles on the surface of MXene were investigated by TEM and HRTEM. TEM image evidenced the presence of Mn₃O₄ nanoparticles with a diameter of 5–18 nm. The HRTEM image of Mn₃O₄/MXene displayed the Lattice fringes with inter-planar distances of 0.307 nm, which was allocated to be (1 1 2) plane of hausmannite. The inter-planar distance of 0.242 nm resembles the (1 0 3) plane of MXene [46]. The MXene sheets are layered structures that are even and soft with pointed edges, while Gd³⁺- and Sn⁴⁺-multi doped bismuth ferrite (BFO) nanocomposites are enclosed on the surface of MXene sheets [65]. In the case of MXene quantum dots with cuprous oxide nanowire (Ti₃C₂/Cu₂ONWs/Cu) nanocomposite, Cu₂O nanowires cover the MXene porous surfaces (Figure 3d) [44]. MXene/50% CuO (Figure 3a–c) showed CuO nanoparticles with 60–100 nm diameters, which were randomly deposited on the surface of MXene nanosheets (Figure 3c), and were stabilized through van der Walls interactions [50].

3.3. Optical Properties

The UV and visible light absorptions are essential for the development of photocatalytic, optoelectronic, photovoltaic, and transparent conductive electrode devices. MXenes are possible compounds for adaptable, transparent electrode studies, whereas their greater reflectivity in the UV range directs towards anti-ultraviolet emissions coating materials, because of their transparent optical property in the visible range and electrical conductivity. Ti₃C₂T_x films can absorb light in the range of UV–visible between 300 to 500 nm. The transmittance of the Ti₃C₂T_x films varied concerning the thickness, and the 5 nm thick film displayed transmittance up to 91% (Figure 4a). It has been suggested that there might be a presence of a strong and wide absorption band at approximately 700–800 nm, based on the thickness of the film (Figure 4b–c). It results in the pale green color and is essential for photothermal therapy (PTT) investigations. Remarkably, the transmittance properties can be improved via varying the film thickness and intercalation of ions. For example, while urea, hydrazine, and DMSO decrease Ti₃C₂T_x film transmittance, tetramethylammonium hydroxide (NMe₄OH) increases it from 74.9 to 92.0% (Figure 4d) [66,67,68,69].

The existence of the functional groups also affects the optical properties of 2D components, as was pointed out by the first principle simulations. The hydroxyl and fluorinated terminations represent identical characteristics, compared with oxygen species. For example, in the visible region, −F and −OH terminations reduce the reflectivity and absorption, whereas, in the UV range, all the terminations improve the reflectivity when likened with the pristine MXene. It has been signified that weak absorbance is accomplished with the decrement of MXene flake size. Ultimately, it has signified that the excellent light-to-heat conversion efficiency (~100%), is beneficial for water evaporation and biomedical treatments. However, certain optical associated characteristics, such as emission colors, luminescence efficiency, plasmonic, and non-linear optical characteristics, are quiet essential to be explained in turn to expand the uses of MXenes [70,71].

4. MXene for Energy Storage and Conversion Systems

4.1. MXene for Energy Storage: Batteries

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are extensively employed as energy storage devices. The best LIB holds a good cyclability, high lithium storage capacity, and elevated rate capacity, all of which rely on the characteristics of the electrode materials existing in LIB’s. Graphite is the very frequently employed anode component, but it undergoes problems from a low specific capacity of 372 mAh/g and deficient rate capability [72,73]. Broad investigation attempts have opened the growth of novel anode materials in LIBs substituted by 2D MXenes [74,75].

Soon after their immediate finding, the probability of employing MXenes as anode materials in LIB was reported [76]. The hypothetical Lithium storage capacity of Ti₃C₂ (in the form of Ti₃C₂Li₂) was 320 mAh/g, related to that of graphite 372 mAh/g. Also, the projected diffusion barrier (0.07 eV) for Lithium on bare Ti₃C₂ was less compared to graphite (0.3 eV), which expected outstanding high-rate performance for simple MXene [77]. Yet, as noticed beyond, all synthesized MXene sheets are terminated with surface groups, probably worsening their functioning by stimulated steric hindrance. Contrasted with some additional terminated MXene sheets, an O-terminated MXene was recommended to retain very good capacitance [78,79,80].

The higher capacities of MXene based LIBs were ascribed to (i) enhanced electrolyte ions approachability and diffusion routes to MXene layers; (ii) greater charge storage because of their delaminating layers; (iii) metal hybridization with greater capacitance and outstanding conductivity; (iv) speedier ion diffusion; and (v) lesser interfacial charge transfer [81]. For instance, new structured MXenes-CNTs associations and porous Ti₃C₂T_x formed by freeze-drying postponed MXenes re-loading and gave rise to very good properties in comparison to MoS₂/graphene nanocomposites (Figure 5a–c) [82,83]. This should be emphasized that MXenes could also be infused by some additional metal ions like Na⁺, K⁺, Al³⁺, and Mg²⁺. Therefore, they could be employed in non-LIBs; those have their usage recently restricted by suitable electrode properties [79]. Ti₂C hypothetical capacities for Mg²⁺ and Al³⁺ were amongst all the uppermost ever projected for both kinds of ion batteries (687 mAhg⁻¹ and 992 mAhg⁻¹ correspondingly) (Figure 5d–e) [84]. Moreover, the probability of sodium ions multilayer adsorptions entices with more attention. Current literature also reveals assuring characteristics as including conductive materials in Li–S type of batteries. It is a promising battery system that gives hypothetical energy densities up to 1675 mAhg⁻¹ (Figure 5f) [85], but is restricted by their quick capacity degradation because of polysulfide moving and dissolution, greater enlargement of volume and worse electrical conductivity of sulfur related cathodes [22,25,86,87]. Therefore, MXene’s growth could head to novel routes on the electrode materials of NLiBs. From

Table 2. Overview of electrochemical characteristics from MXene and MXene-based composite for batteries.

Materials	Method of Synthesis	Reversible Capacity (mAhg−1)	Rate Capability (mAhg−1)	Cycles	Ref
Ti2CTx	Exfoliation	225	70	200	[22]
Ti2C/TiO2	Chemical exfoliation	389	280	1000	[24]
Ti3C2/CNF	Liquid-phase impregnation	320	97	2900	[25]
Ti3C2Tx/CNT	Chemical vapor deposition	1250	500	100	[26]
Nb4C3Tx	Spark plasma sintering	380	320	1000	[27]
Ti3C2Tx/NiCo2O4	In-situ growth	1330	1200	100	[28]
SnO2/ Ti3C2Tx	Atomic layer deposition	1041	451	50	[29]
MoS2@ Ti3C2Tx	Acid etching	843	132	200	[30]
V2CTx	Ball-milling	288	125	150	[86]
Nb2CTx	Ball-milling	250	110	150	[86]
Nb2CTx/CNT	Amine-assisted delamination process	420	370	100	[88]
Sn(IV)@ Ti3C2	Facile liquid-phase immersion process	635	544	200	[89]
Ti3C2Tx/Ag	Direct reduction	310	260	5000	[90]

, the MXene with metal oxide composite exhibited high reversible capacity and rate capability due to the enhanced conductivity and contribution of the capacitive capacity.

The lithium storage features of MXene-based materials rely on several factors like the functioning of 2D MXene and its byproducts for LIBs. This can be understood that the property can be modified by more prospects like surface decoration, functional group grafting, and variation of composition. Consequently, the rational nano-engineering of centered materials will vividly endorse their usage in LIB. Up to now, these are only restricted MXene materials with selected metal that have been prepared. So, adjusting the MXene components like metal species and a portion of metal/carbon will largely influence the performance of Li storage. Additional prospects like surface termination and interlayer distance are also significant to accommodate Li-ions. Through mixing MXenes with other effective materials with better capacity (such as silicon, metal oxides), the synergistic development can be accomplished. Enhancing the above-stated factors is the solution to get greater functioning of MXenes for LIB [83,84,85]. The MXene-based composite material is conceivable to be a promising high-performance anode material for LIBs [86,87,88,89,90]. Furthermore, various MXene based metal oxide composites were suggested for their use in energy storage applications.

4.2. MXene for Energy Storage: Supercapacitors/Dielectrics

MXenes also widely used in developing supercapacitors that are taken into account in replacements of energy storage devices due to elevated rates of charge/discharge compared to batteries and longer cycling stability. For example, multilayered Ti₃C₂T_x offered functioning of 340 F/cm³ in KOH alkaline solutions [91], which is identical or finer than marketable activated and graphene carbon electrodes (correspondingly, 200–350 and 180 F/cm³) [92]. When subjected to acidic solutions, such as H₂SO₄, the Ti₃C₂T_x film disclosed very good volumetric capacitance values (900 F/cm³ at 2 mVs⁻¹ rate), even after 10,000 cycles, without degradation [91,92,93].

This dissimilar performance in acidic and alkaline electrolytes originates from the variance in the mechanism of the charge-discharge process. Whereas Ti₃C₂T_x has shown excellent pseudocapacitive properties in an acidic solution (e.g., H₂SO₄), only electrical double layer capacitance is observed in alkaline or neutral electrolytes that decreases their performance. Notably, pseudocapacitive performance is connected to closeness towards the electrode surfaces at, or the reversible surface redox reactions that give elevated energy density. Whereas, the double-layer capacitor depends on the reversible growth of electrolyte ions deprived of redox reactions. Subsequently, their decreased electrochemistry performances in basic and organic electrolytes are unfavorable steps towards realistic applications. Additionally, their charge storage processes above dissimilar electrolyte media are still to be completely implicit [94,95,96].

MXenes have a robust tendency of aggregation through hydrogen bonding and van der Waals attraction. This spoils their performance, mostly due to the lack of accessibility, the loss of surface area, and interchange of ions limitation. Therefore, other approaches have been adopted to resolve these issues, like usage of interlayer spacers, customized architectural designs (such as macroporous structure, hydrogel, or vertically aligned liquid-crystalline), the combination of these approaches and arrangement with conductive particles (e.g., Nb₂O₅ and NiO) [97,98]. Other compounds, such as Mo₂CT_x [99] and Mo_1.33CT_x [100], also revealed promising functionality as supercapacitors. Regardless of the valuable effect of vacancies to Mo_1.33CT_x capacitance (around 700 F/cm³, 65% higher than Mo₂CT_x), their effect on electrochemical functioning yet needs to be further examined. Additionally, it was currently established that the flake size is quietly associated with the capacitance presentations. Ultimately, Nb₃C₂ projected quantum capacitance was greater than graphene, but neither this MXene, nor it’s MAX phase precursors (Nb₃AlC₂) have still been prepared, regardless of their projected stability [101,102].

Moreover, Ti₃C₂T_x-polypyrrole nanocomposite (1000 F/cm³) can almost reach the “new” (Mo₂/3Y₁/3)₂CT_x [103] and Ti₃C₂T_x [104] hydrogels performances (~1500 F/cm³) [39], that are among the best conveyed volumetric capacitance values for any capacitive compound (

Table 3. Summary of the capacitance of MXene and their composites.

Materials	Synthesis Route	Volumetric Capacitance (F/cm3)	Scan Rate (mV/s)	Ref
90 wt% Ti3C2Tx/10 wt% PVA	HF etching	528	2	[31]
Ti3C2Tx	Ball milling	900	2	[38]
88 wt% Mxene/GO fiber	Liquid crystal-assisted fiber spinning approach	341	2	[43]
Mxene/rGO-90 fiber (containing 90 w/w% of Mxene)	Wet spinning assembly	586.4	2	[44]
Mxene/rGO-50 fiber (containing 50 w/w% of Mxene)		276	2	[44]
EGMX (1:9)	Solution process	33	2	[45]
2:1:1.1:2 MO2TiC2	HF etching	413	2	[107]
2D MO2TiCx	HCL-LiF	196	2	[108]
Ti3AlC2/Polypyrrole (2:1)	HCL-LiF	416	5	[109]

) [105]. Ultimately, regardless of many prepared MXenes, only molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), and currently vanadium (V) derivatives were examined [106]. Therefore, other compounds must be assessed in turn to enlarge and improve the latest electrode materials of supercapacitors as the MXene based nanocomposites are highly suitable for the development of superior capacitors (Table 3).

The dielectric permittivity and loss tangent of MXene/Polymer composites with variation in the MXene loading and different polymers have also been investigated (Figure 6a). It has been noticed that the dielectric permittivity of composites increases when MXene filler concentration increases. Figure 6b shows the dielectric permittivity and loss of the polymer consisting of different types of fillers, including CNTs, rGO, and MXene. The dielectric constant of different types of insulating polymers [e.g., P(VDF-TrFE-CFE), P(VDF-TrFE-CTFE), P(VDF-TrFE), and PVP] increases significantly with the addition of 4 wt% MXene (Figure 6c). To understand the probable microwave absorption property, the relative complex permittivity and permeability of the prepared samples have also been measured in the frequency range of 2–18 GHz and evaluated carefully in Figure 6d. The relative complex permeability (µ’) values of the prepared MXene composites fluctuate over 2–18 GHz and are less than 1.1. The µ′ values of the prepared samples decreased from 0.78 to nearly 0 due to snoek’s limitation (Figure 6e). Figure 6f describes the dielectric dissipation factors of the samples. From the figure, the pure iron sample has quite low dielectric loss factor. MXene composites have shown large tanδ values [110,111].

From

Table 4. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss of MXene with different polymer composites.

Materials	Dielectric Constant	Dielectric Loss	Ref.
MXene/P (VDF-TrFE-CTFE)	47	0.2	[37]
4% MXene/P (VDF-TrFE-CTFE)	159	0.22	[37]
MXene/P (VDF-TrFE)	18	0.006	[37]
4.3% MXene/P (VDF-TrFE)	80	0.06	[40]
MXene/PVP	2.5	0.01	[40]
4% MXene/PVP	16.4	0.03	[40]
MXene/P (VDF-TrFE-CFE)	55	0.06	[41]
4% MXene/P (VDF-TrFE-CFE)	317	0.17	[41]

, the MXene-based polymer composites exhibit good dielectric property due to the charge accumulation caused by the formation of microscopic dipoles at the surface between the MXene and the polymer matrix under an external applied electric field. MXene with polymer composites is very useful in power capacitors, cryogenic electronics, and radiofrequency applications.

4.3. MXene for CO₂ Conversion

Due to suitable physical and chemical properties, MXene can potentially be used for CO₂ storage and photo-, electrochemical reduction. Recently, CO₂ storage on the surface of M₂C MXene (M = transition metals such as Ti, Hf, Zr, V, Ta, Nb, Mo, W) (0001) is described by employing the state-of-the-art DFT PBE estimations comprising D3 Grimme correction dispersion. Outputs reveal elevated adsorption energies up to 3.69 eV supplemented by a CO₂ stimulation, converted into anionic CO₂ d species with extended d(CO) bonds, bent structures, and an MXene/CO₂ charge transfer, unexpectedly above 2e for Hf₂C [112,113]. With these elevated adsorption energies, M₂C MXenes are projected to be most efficient compared to their 3D bulk accompaniment for CO₂ capturing, storage, and stimulation. 2D M₂C MXenes are introduced as potential materials for CO₂ capture, whereas its stimulated adsorption is further enchanting for employing them as CO₂ conversion catalysts [114,115,116].

The activity of transition metal carbides as CO₂ conversion materials has been described by Zhou et al.’s that proved M₂CO₂ with an oxygen vacancy as an effective catalyst for CO₂ reduction. Also, it should be noted that: (i) MXenes have broad metal-terminated surfaces, that may favor CO₂ capturing; and (ii) MXenes shows metallic characters, that are useful for the different photo- and electrochemical reactions [117]. In particular, computing that chemical absorption of CO₂ has favored over chemical absorption of H₂O on their surfaces [118,119,120]. Additionally, the expectation that high electrical conductivity and the hydrophilic nature will accelerate an electrochemical reduction of CO₂, in consideration of both giving electrons and H⁺ attachment [121]. From this context, we assume that groups of IV−VI MXenes, such as carbides of transition-metal with formulas M_n+1C_n (n = 2), can work as efficient catalysts. MoS₂/Si nanostructure exhibits good activity by the photoelectrochemical method (Figure 7A,B). The CV response of the Bi/C electrode showed an electrochemical reduction of CO₂ to formate at a scan rate of 50 mV/s (Figure 7C).

Photocatalytic CO₂ conversion to beneficial products is an attractive methodology for attaining the two-fold profits of standardizing additional atmospheric CO₂ stages and the fabrication of solar fuels/chemicals. Consequently, catalysts materials are constantly being established with improved functioning in agreement with their corresponding areas. Currently, nanostructured catalysts such as 1-D, 2-D, and 3-D/ hierarchical have been a theme of huge significance due to their precise benefits over composite catalytic materials, comprising huge surface areas, efficient charge separation, steering charge transport, and light trapping/scattering effects [124,125,126,127]. A hierarchical heterostructured, selectively Ti₃C₂ quantum dots decorated Cu₂O nanowires on Cu mesh, has been fabricated via easy electrostatic self-assembly. Formation of methanol ensuing from the photocatalytic reduction of CO₂ by Ti₃C₂ quantum dots /Cu₂O nanowires/Cu is 8.25 times or 2.15 times of that from Cu₂O nanowires/Cu or Ti₃C₂ sheets/Cu₂O nanowires/Cu, correspondingly [48]. From

Table 5. Summary of the photochemical catalytic reduction performance of the various reported composite materials.

Materials	Light Source	Catalytic Performance	Ref.
Sulfur doped g-C3N4/Pt	300 W Xenon lamp	CH3OH: 0.04 µmolh−1	[49]
g-C3N4/N-TiO2 nanosheets	300 W Xenon lamp	CO: 14.73 µmolg−1 CH4: 03.94 µmolg−1	[117]
TiO2/Ti3C2	300 W Xenon lamp	CH4 = 0.22 µmolh−1	[128]
Graphene QDs—TiO2 nanotube arrays (TNT)	100 W Xenon lamp	CH4: 1.98 ppmcm−2h−1	[129]
TNT-rGO	100 W Xenon lamp	CH4: 5.67 ppmcm−2h−1	[130]
Ordered mesoporous co-doped TiO2	300 W Xenon lamp	CO: 0.19 µmolh−1	[131]
TiO2/Mg	300 W Xenon lamp	CH4: 0.15 µmolg−1	[132]
Cu modified g-C3N4 sheets with TiO2 nanoparticles	500 W Xe lamp	CH3OH: 614 µmolg−1 HCOOH: 6709 µmolg−1	[133]
2-D-g-C3N4 with o-D-TiO2-x nanoparticles	300 W Xenon lamp	CO: 388.9 µmolg−1	[134]
Graphene—TiO2 nanostructures (nanoparticles, nanotubes, nanosheets)	300 W Xenon lamp	CO: 75.8 µmolg−1h−1 CH4: 12.3 µmolg−1h−1	[135]

, the TiO₂ based nanocomposites are highly useful in the photoelectrochemical conversion of CO₂ to fuels.

In terms of CO₂ electrochemical reduction reaction (CO₂RR), different types of MXenes (e.g., Ti₂CO₂, V₂CO₂, and Ti₃C₂O₂, M₃C₂, O-terminated MXenes, and −OH-terminated MXenes) have been examined by means of DFT computations [136].

An initial computational study has suggested that among eight different MXenes (pristine and without surface termination) with formula M₃C₂ where M belongs to group IV, V, and VI transition-metal, can potentially convert CO₂ into hydrocarbon electrochemically. It has been mentioned that Cr₃C₂ and Mo₃C₂ with a minimum energy input of 1.05 and 1.31 eV, respectively, can selectively convert CO₂ into methane. The required input energy can be further reduced to 0.35 and 0.54 eV by using −O or −OH terminated Cr₃C₂ and Mo₃C₂, respectively. Therefore, Chen et al. perform additional computational study for −OH terminated carbide and nitride MXenes [137]. Sc₂C(OH)₂ and Y₂C(OH)₂ were suggested to be the most promising catalysts for the selective production of methane via CO₂RR. Both catalysts can reduce CO₂ at significantly less negative potential than the Cu metal. Here it should be noted that most of the standard nanocatalysts except Cu are not able to produce higher carbon products during CO₂RR [138]. For instance, Au and Ag-based nanocatalysts produce only carbon monoxide (CO) as a CO₂RR product. However, Cu based nanocatalysts can produce hydrocarbon but suffer from poor selectivity, as discussed in our previous review [139]. Thus, we predict that MXene-based catalysts offer a breakthrough in CO₂RR but still need to be examined experimentally.

4.4. MXene for Proton Reduction

Hydrogen is an excellent energy carrier could potentially replace carbon-based fuel if it is produced via clean and sustainable technology. In this regard, hydrogen production via hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) using renewable energy sources offer a feasible approach. Apart from noble metal catalysts (e.g., Pt, Pd), 2D nanomaterials, including transition metal dichalcogenides such as MoS₂, WS₂, and their hybrid structures are reportedly excellent catalysts for HER [140]. With the discovery of MXene, recent efforts are directed towards exploring the HER catalytic activity of these nanomaterials [141].

Theoretical and experimental studies have been performed to investigate the HER activity of MXene. Initially, Zhi et al. performed density-functional theory (DFT) estimations to establish ΔG_H (hydrogen adsorption Gibbs free energy) on MXenes, followed by experiments to verify their DFT results [142]. Based on DFT calculation, Mo₂CT_x was predicted to be more functional catalyst due to smaller ΔG_H and theoretical overpotential (0.048 eV, 48 mV respectively) in comparison to the Ti₂CT_x (0.358 eV, 358 mV respectively). Recently, Yu-Wen Cheng et al. also performed DFT study, and their results indicate the higher HER activity of O*-terminated M₂^′M″C₂ due to appropriate binding strength between hydrogen absorption and termination of O*, and availability of more electrons [143]. When both materials were tested in 0.5 M H₂SO₄(aq), 609 mV and 189 mV overpotential were recorded for Ti₂CT_x and Mo₂CT_x at a current density of 10 mA cm⁻²_geo respectively. The superior activity of Mo₂CT_x was accredited to the existence of active sites located on the basal plane. Further, Guoxing Qu et al. synthesized phosphorus-doped Mo₂CT_x MXenes (P–Mo₂CT_x) and compared the results with un-doped Mo₂CT_x MXenes and commercial Pt/C (Figure 8a,b) [144].

It has been argued that dopant enhances the conductivity of the materials as evidence by ~5 times lower charge transfer resistance (Rct) than that of without dopant and reduces the ΔG_H* simultaneously. More interestingly, P–Mo₂CT_x was stable for 24 h in acidic media. Wenjin Yuan et al. examined the HER activity of lamellar Mo₂C (L-Mo₂C) and interestingly 10 mA cm⁻²_geo current density was achieved at only 95.8 mV and 170 mV overpotential in 1M KOH and 0.5M H₂SO₄ solution, correspondingly [145]. The superior HER activity of L-Mo₂C was mainly attributed to the lower value of ΔG_H (−0.034 eV) of the C-terminal (1 0 0) plane in Mo₂C. Due to the participation of C atoms in HER, L-Mo₂C exhibits superior stability, avoiding poisoning phenomena due to oxidation of atoms. Extracted Tafel slopes of 77 and 99 mV dec⁻¹ in alkaline and acidic solution correspondingly indicate that HER on L-Mo₂C is governed by Volmer–Heyrovsky mechanism. Based on a theoretical study, V-based catalysts should also exhibit excellent HER catalytic activity. Thus, Minh H. Tran et al. synthesized V₄C₃T_x and examined HER activity [146]. However, the results claim poor performance of V₄C₃T_x as 10 mA cm⁻²_geo current density was observed at ~ −800 mV, and a high Tafel slop (~236 mV/dec) was calculated. Surprisingly, the performance of the catalysts improves after 100 cycles, and 10 mA cm⁻²_geo current density has been obtained at 200 mV lower overpotential. Compare to nanoparticles or nanoflakes MXene, MXene nano-fibers exhibit superior HER activity due to the simple enhancement in an extreme specific surface area (SSA), and thus, the availability of additional active sites. The catalytic activity can be further boosted by the creation of interface or hybrid structure. Thus, Jie Xiong et al. created Mo/β-Mo₂C hetero-nanosheets and identified that Mo/β-Mo₂C nanocatalysts require only 89 mV to drive HER with a current density of 10 mA cm⁻²_geo in 0.5 M H₂SO₄ [147]. More importantly, Mo/β-Mo₂C’s HER activity remains approximately unaffected after 20 h of long chronoamperometric electrolysis or 4000 I-V sweeps. Again the origin for improved catalytic activity was assumed due to lower ΔG_H (−0.04 eV) for Mo/β-Mo₂C compared to those of individual Mo (−0.39) and β-Mo₂C (−0.19 eV). Considering that the basal plan is responsible for higher HER activity, Albertus D. Handoko performed controlled experiments by varying the degree of basal plan functionality using Ti₃C₂T_x as an example [148]. DFT calculations, along with experimental results, confirm that replacing O with F (fluorine) on basal plan results in higher ΔG_H and HER overpotential. Recently Ti₃C₂T_x and MoS₂ hybrid catalysts were also designed in search of efficient HER catalysts [149]. In brief, “nanoroll” like MoS₂/Ti₃C₂T_x hybrid structure was synthesized by quick freezing of the Ti₃C₂T_x and MoS₂ precursor (ammonium tetrathiomolybdate) followed by annealing in H₂/Ar (20%/80%) atmosphere with a heating rate of 5 °C/min. The HER results show relatively improved performance as HER initiate only at 30 mV, and an approximately 25-fold rise in the exchange current density in comparison to the MoS₂ nanoflakes. Double transition metal MXene nanosheets (Mo₂TiC₂T_x) consisting of Mo vacancies in outer layers have also been used to immobilize Pt atom and examined for HER [150]. In this configuration, due to solid covalent interaction among positively charged Pt single atoms and the MXene, it has unusual high HER activity. The HER takes place at very low potential, and 10, and 100 mA cm⁻² current densities were recorded only at 30 and 77 mV over potential, respectively (

Table 6. HER activity of different 2D nanomaterials with different media.

Materials	Over Potential at 10 mA cm–2geo	Media (Aqueous Solution)	Reference
Mo2CTx	300 mV	0.5 M H2SO4	[142]
P–Mo2CTx	186 mV	0.5 M H2SO4	[142]
Mo2CTX MXene	283 mV	0.5 M H2SO4	[142]
MoS2	280 mV	0.5 M H2SO4	[142]
Ti2CTx	609 mV	0.5 M H2SO4	[143]
Mo2CTx	189 mV	0.5 M H2SO4	[143,148]
L-Mo2C (lamellar structure β-Mo2C)	170 mV	0.5 M H2SO4	[145]
L-Mo2C (lamellar structure β-Mo2C)	95.8 mV	1 M KOH	[145]
Ti3C2 nanofibers	169 mV	0.5 M H2SO4	[149]
Ti3C2 flakes	385 mV	0.5 M H2SO4	[149]
MoS2/Ti3C2Tx	152 mV	0.5 M H2SO4	[149]

).

MXene based nanomaterials (Table 6) showed the high overpotential at 10 mA cm⁻² in 0.5 M H₂SO₄ medium (HER activity) due to the increased reaction content area is profitable to the interaction between Mxenes and hydrogen atoms.

4.5. MXene for Oxygen Reduction Reaction

The developments of cutting-edge skills, like fuel cells and metal-air batteries, afford great potential and supportable replacement solutions to challenge environmental issues and increasing severe energy [151,152,153]. Extremely active and long-lasting electrocatalysts for cathodic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) are crucial for the extensive range of applications in fuel cells [154]. The state-of-the-art catalysts are importantly dependent on noble metals such as platinum (Pt), but the costly, inadequate resources and worse durability have considerably hindered the marketing of the Pt-grounded fuel cells. Based on this, the investigation of economically cheap metal catalysts has been a leading theme of the electrocatalysts [155]. During the past, many efforts have been made to expand even metal-free alternatives or non-Pt family metals as ORR catalysts. Particularly, the quick growth has been accomplished on metal-free ORR electrocatalysts, such as heteroatom-doped graphene, mesoporous carbons, and CNTs [156]. Currently, investigations on electrocatalysts of MXenes and MXene nanocomposites have got much attentiveness [157,158]. MXenes, holding hydrophilic surface with protuberant stability and conductivity, can be predictable as assuring electrocatalysts. Specifically, the recent literature has concentrated on the MXene composites for electrocatalysts, such as the overlay of g-C₃N₄ and Ti₃C₂ nanosheets (Figure 9) composites (TCCN) as a catalyst for ORR process [159].

The Ti₃C₂ MXene-based catalyst has shown excellent ORR activity and stability in the basic medium [160,161]. Through a sandwich-like form comprising of titanium atoms at the terminals or the surface layer and carbon atoms at the innermost layer, the catalyst is a flawless model system for the interpretation of the ORR active sites of this type of 2D layer-by-layer catalysts. This provides a new route to apply Ti₃C₂ MXene-based catalysts for efficient ORR activity and stability in the basic medium for fabricating greater-functioning and economically cheap electrocatalysts [47].

X Yu et al. have prepared a facile fabrication of g-C₃N₄ nanosheets with Ti₃C₂ nanoparticles. The gC₃N₄/Ti₃C₂ hybrid-structures show a significant improvement for ORR than that of pure g-C₃N₄ nanosheets (Figure 9c,d). Also, the electrocatalytic activity is intensely depending on the stacking amount of Ti₃C₂ nanoparticles. The optimal stacking quantity of Ti₃C₂ to g-C₃N₄ is about 2 wt %. The enhanced catalytic performance is ascribed to the improved oxygen adsorption and well-organized charge separation because of the electronic coupling among g-C₃N₄ and Ti₃C₂. Predominantly, contrasted with the marketable Pt/C, the g-C₃N₄/Ti₃C₂ hybrid-structures reveal good methanol tolerance then again with no intake of valuable metals [52]. The theoretical study has suggested that V₂C and Mo₂C MXenes with N-doped graphene can potentially be used for ORR due to very low ORR overpotential, i.e., 0.36 V, and low kinetics barriers due to electronic coupling between the n-doped graphene and the MXene [158].

The MoS₂QDs@Ti₃C₂T_xQDs@MMWCNTs catalyst (Figure 9a,b) also shows a superior ORR mechanism to other non-Pt catalysts, providing a low Tafel slope of 90 mV dec⁻¹ and greater half potential like E_1/2, 0.75 V, that was near to their marketable Pt/C (20%) catalyst (E_1/2 of 0.80 V, Tafel slope of 89 mV dec⁻¹) [162,163,164,165,166]. Besides, the MoS₂QDs@Ti₃C₂T_xQDs@MMWCNTs (Figure 10) also hold better electro-oxidation activity for methanol in basic solution, providing current density at 2.2 V of 160 A·g⁻¹ with extreme methanol oxidation. The outputs signified that the grouping of MoS₂ and Ti₃C₂T_x QDs with MWCNTs could provide a potential for producing the bifunctional electrocatalysts for MOR and ORR [167,168,169,170,171,172,173,174]. From

Table 7. Summary of the ORR activity for the synthesized MXene composites with recently reported highly active electrocatalysts.

Catalyst	Load Mass (mg/cm2)	Electrolyte	Half-Wave Potential	Ref
FeNx embedded in 2D porous nitrogen doped carbon	0.14	0.1 M KOH	0.86 V	[46]
B, Fe doped porous carbon	0.6	0.1 M KOH	0.838 V	[50]
Fe isolated single atoms on S, N co-doped carbon	0.51	0.1 M KOH	0.896 V	[51]
Fe nanoparticles	0.1	0.1 M KOH	0.6 V	[65]
MXene	0.1	0.1 M KOH	0.75 V	[65]
Fe-N-C/MXene	0.1	0.1 M KOH	0.84 V	[65]
Fe-N co-doped carbon nanotubes	0.1	0.1 M KOH	0.83 V	[163]
S-doped Fe-N-C	0.6	0.1 M H2SO4	0.836V	[164]
Fe-N-co-doped carbon frame	0.5	0.1 M KOH	0.7 V	[165]
Fe-N-co-doped carbon frame	0.5	0.1 M HClO4	0.77 V	[165]

, Fe doped MXene materials show high oxygen reduction reaction activity (half-wave potential) due to increased oxygen adsorption and charge separation.

The as-prepared Mn₃O₄/MXene hybrid structure shows favorable electrochemical activity for ORR with a foremost four-electron oxygen reduction route and ~0.89 V onset potential (similar to that of Pt/C) in basic solution. The metal type conductivity and hydrophilic nature help in raising the speed of electron transfer and reducing the accumulation of nanoparticles. Additionally, Mn₃O₄/MXene shows greater stability compared to Mn₃O₄/acetylene black due to the most stable Mn₃O₄/MXene hybrid structure [175].

The prepared low-cost Fe doped MXene nanocomposites with excellent ORR behavior can be an assuring candidate as an ORR catalyst and for application in metal-air batteries, fuel cells, and some other energy storage devices.

5. Concluding Remarks and Prospective

Study reports on MXene have produced immense eagerness in the investigation of 2D materials. MXene, exfoliated from layered MAX phases, has obtained developing much attention in current time. These comprise the synthesis of simple MXenes; the exfoliation of novel MXenes, the investigations on these 2D systems, the characterization of these electronic, optical characteristics, and their potential energy storage applications. The characteristic features of MXene sheets cause them auspicious candidates as replacements to noble metal catalysts for different electrochemical reactions useful for renewable energy storage systems. This overview summarizes the novel development in research of MXene and reveals the prompt growth of the MXene research groups. The developments accomplished in groundwork and features, jointly with the discovered uses of MXene, deliver a robust impetus to furthest development in the description and application of these latest 2D materials.

All anticipate additional research attempts and improved interpretation. We are certain that this novel class of 2D materials shows very good ability, and we expect more researchers will develop this field of materials by replacing graphene and give important scientific elaborations.