2D-Transition Metal Carbides and Nitrides: Prospects and Challenges

A family of previously undiscovered two-dimensional (2D) layered atomic structures having carbides, nitrides or carbonitrides (MXene) have emerged as advanced materials for various applications. Due to their hydrophilicity, metallic conductivity, adaptable surface chemistry these compounds have excellent surface terminations, due to which they can be widely used in environmental applications like carbon capture, energy storage, wastewater treatment, MXene/Polymer Nanocomposites, Electromagnetic Shielding, catalysis, batteries and supercapacitors, nanofluids, etc. These unexplored 2-D materials have a high potential to replace Graphene and its compounds in the near future. The rise of MXenes has allowed global researchers to verify and replace the existing nanomaterials with this new family with intriguing characteristics. This review emphasizes the significance of comprehending the ultimate goal and the necessary characteristics to develop suitable materials for particular applications and to facilitate the further progression of MXenes in various applications.