The promising frontier for next-generation energy storage and clean energy production: A review on synthesis and applications of MXenes

Currently the world is facing significant challenges of meeting the rising demands of production of green energy. Clean energy technology development has received a lot of attention because of increasing energy shortages and aggravating environmental degradation. It is critical to address these challenges by developing materials that facilitate carbon-free technologies. MXenes, an emerging member of the 2D nanomaterials family, has distinctive features in terms of clean energy production and storage. This review analyzes various MXenes synthesis methods based on several key factors. The review focuses on MXenes' applications in energy storage devices, particularly in rechargeable batteries and supercapacitors. MXenes exhibit exceptional electrochemical performance due to their high specific surface area, excellent electrical conductivity, and unique interlayer spacing, enabling efficient charge storage and fast ion diffusion. We discuss their implementation as electrode materials in lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, lithium-sulphur batteries, metal air batteries and supercapacitors. Moreover, the review examines the applications of MXenes in hydrogen (H₂) production technologies. MXenes have shown tremendous potential as photo/electrocatalysts for water splitting, a key process in renewable hydrogen production. Their unique surface chemistry and tunable electronic properties enable efficient hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity. We discuss the recent advancements in developing MXene-based photo/electrocatalysts with their exceptional catalytic performance and durability. Furthermore, we highlight the challenges and prospects associated with MXenes' applications in energy storage and H₂ production. Strategies for improving the stability, scalability, and overall performance of MXenes are discussed. This review not only provides a comprehensive analysis of the recent research efforts but also serves as a guide for future research directions in utilizing MXenes to address the global energy and sustainability challenges.