MXene-Based Composites for Energy Harvesting and Energy Storage Devices
Jorge Alexandre Alencar Fotius, Helinando Pequeno de Oliveira
Abstract
MXenes, a class of two-dimensional transition metal carbides and nitrides, emerged as a promising material for next-generation energy storage and corresponding applications due to their unique combination of high electrical conductivity, tunable surface chemistry, and lamellar structure. This review highlights recent advances in MXene-based composites, focusing on their integration into electrode architectures for the development of supercapacitors, batteries, and multifunctional devices, including triboelectric nanogenerators. It serves as a comprehensive overview of the multifunctional capabilities of MXene-based composites and their role in advancing efficient, flexible, and sustainable energy and sensing technologies, outlining how MXene-based systems are poised to redefine multifunctional energy platforms. Electrochemical performance optimization strategies are discussed by considering surface functionalization, interlayer engineering, scalable synthesis techniques, and integration with advanced electrolytes, with particular attention paid to the development of hybrid supercapacitors, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), and wearable sensors. These applications are favored due to improved charge storage capability, mechanical properties, and the multifunctionality of MXenes. Despite these aspects, challenges related to long-term stability, sustainable large-scale production, and environmental degradation must still be addressed. Emerging approaches such as three-dimensional self-assembly and artificial intelligence-assisted design are identified as key challenges for overcoming these issues.