Recent advances in MXene-hydrogel composites: Nanoarchitectonics and environmental applications

This review highlights the synthesis, properties, and broad environmental applications of MXenes/hydrogel composites. Its main focus will be on unique layered structure, high surface reactivity, and terminal functionalization for exceptional versatility in environmental monitoring. The integration of MXenes and hydrogels to constitute MXene-hydrogel composites is discussed, offering advancements in terms of enhancing the biocompatibility coupled with flexibility of functionalizing the composites. Additionally, different preparation methods-the techniques of chemical vapour deposition as well as molten salt etching are discussed, aiming at the sustainability of MXene-hydrogel composites in areas of photocatalytic degradation, hydrogen storage, and shielding from electromagnetic interference. We also compared MXene with other two-dimensional materials such as COFs and MOFs to gain a comprehensive grasp of the advantages and limitations of two-dimensional materials across many applications. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the synthesis of MXene and MXene-hydrogel composites, highlighting its promise for future advancements in environmental and energy applications.