Recent progress and advances in the environmental applications of MXene related materials

Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal Synthesis of Photocatalytic Truncated-Bipyramidal TiO2/Ti3CN Heterostructures Derived from Ti3CN MXene

TiO2/MXene heterostructure has garnered significant interest as a photocatalyst due to its large surface area and efficient charge carrier separation at the interface. However, current synthesis methods produce TiO2 without clear crystal faceting and often require complicated postprocessing step, limiting its practical applications. We demonstrate a facile and controlled microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis for transforming multilayered Ti3CN MXene to a truncated-bipyramidal TiO2/Ti3CN heterostructure. The resulting TiO2 nanocrystals at the Ti3CN surface exhibited crystalline anatase truncated bipyramids, exposing {001} and {101} facets. We further tailored an indirect optical band gap of the TiO2/Ti3CN heterostructure in the range of 3.17-3.23 eV by varying the hydrothermal synthesis time from 15 min to 5 h at a fixed temperature of 160 °C. Efficient charge separation allowed us to decompose 97% of methylene blue (MB) within 30 min of ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation, ∼3.9-fold faster than the benchmark P25, higher than any other TiO2/MXene heterostructures. With simulated white light, we achieved over 60% efficiency of the dye decomposition within 2 h of irradiation, which resulted in 1.5-fold faster kinetics than P25. We also observed a similar excellent performance of Ti3CN-derived TiO2 in decomposing various persistent synthetic dyes, including commercial textile dye, methyl orange, and rhodamine B. In conclusion, our study provides a strategy for utilizing MXene chemical reactivity to produce highly crystalline optically active TiO2/Ti3CN heterostructure. The developed heterostructure can serve as an efficient photocatalyst for the degradation of organic pollutants.

Advanced functional materials based on nanocellulose/Mxene: A review

The escalating need for a sustainable future has driven the advancement of renewable functional materials. Nanocellulose, derived from the abundant natural biopolymer cellulose, demonstrates noteworthy characteristics, including high surface area, crystallinity, mechanical strength, and modifiable chemistry. When combined with two-dimensional (2D) graphitic materials, nanocellulose can generate sophisticated hybrid materials with diverse applications as building blocks, carriers, scaffolds, and reinforcing constituents. This review highlights the progress of research on advanced functional materials based on the integration of nanocellulose, a versatile biopolymer with tailorable properties, and MXenes, a new class of 2D transition metal carbides/nitrides known for their excellent conductivity, mechanical strength, and large surface area. By addressing the challenges and envisioning future prospects, this review underscores the burgeoning opportunities inherent in MXene/nanocellulose composites, heralding a sustainable frontier in the field of materials science.

Advances in MXene-based technologies for the remediation of toxic phenols: A comprehensive review

The pressing global issue of organic pollutants, particularly phenolic compounds derived primarily from industrial wastes, poses a significant threat to the environment. Although progress has been made in the development of low-cost materials for phenolic compound removal, their effectiveness remains limited. Thus, there is an urgent need for novel technologies to comprehensively address this issue. In this context, MXenes, known for their exceptional physicochemical properties, have emerged as highly promising candidates for the remediation of phenolic pollutants. This review aims to provide a comprehensive and critical evaluation of MXene-based technologies for the removal of phenolic pollutants, focusing on the following key aspects: (1) The classification and categorization of phenolic pollutants, highlighting their adverse environmental impacts, and emphasizing the crucial need for their removal. (2) An in-depth discussion on the synthesis methods and properties of MXene-based composites, emphasizing their suitability for environmental remediation. (3) A detailed analysis of MXene-based adsorption, catalysis, photocatalysis, and hybrid processes, showcasing current advancements in MXene modification and functionalization to enhance removal efficiency. (4) A thorough examination of the removal mechanisms and stability of MXene-based technologies, elucidating their operating conditions and stability in pollutant removal scenarios. (5) Finally, this review concludes by outlining future challenges and opportunities for MXene-based technologies in water treatment, facilitating their potential applications. This comprehensive review provides valuable insights and innovative ideas for the development of versatile MXene-based technologies tailored to combat water pollution effectively.

A comprehensive overview of recent progress in MXene-based polymer composites: Their fabrication processes, advanced applications, and prospects

MXenes are a group of 2D transition metal carbonitrides, nitrides and carbides that have become widely recognized as useful materials since they were first discovered in 2011. MXenes, with their exceptional layered structures and splendid external chemistries, have excellent electrical, optical, and thermal properties, making them suitable for catalysis, biomedical uses, environmental remediation, energy storage, and EMI shielding. Over forty MXene compounds with surface terminations like hydroxyl, oxygen, or fluorine are hydrophilic and easily integrated into various applications. Advanced synthesis methods, including selective etching and etchant modifications, have broadened MXene surface chemistries for customized mechanical, thermal, and electrical applications. Integrating MXenes into polymer composites has demonstrated notable promise, enhancing the host polymers' electrical conductivity, thermal stability and mechanical strength. The MXene-polymer composites demonstrate remarkable prospective on behalf of advanced purposes, including flexible electronics, high-performance EMI shielding materials, and lightweight structural components. MXenes have the desirable characteristic of being able to create flexible and translucent films, as well as improve the properties of polymer matrices. This makes them very suitable for use in advanced technological applications. This review summarizes MXene research, methods, and insights, highlighting key discoveries and future directions. This also highlights the importance of ongoing research to fill in the gaps in current knowledge and improve the practical uses of MXenes.

Carbon based nanocomposites, surface functionalization as a promising material for VOCs (volatile organic compounds) treatment

Urban residential and industrial growth development affects sustainable and healthful indoor environments. Environmental issues are a global problem. The deterioration of indoor air quality has prompted the creation of several air cleansing techniques. This review explains how carbon-based materials have influenced the development of air purification systems using photocatalysis. These carbon-based materials offer unique properties and advantages in VOC removal processes. Biochar, produced from biomass pyrolysis, provides an environmentally sustainable solution with its porous structure and carbon-rich composition. Carbon quantum dots, with their quantum confinement effects and tunable surface properties, show promise in VOC sensing and removal applications. Polymers incorporating reduced graphene oxide demonstrate enhanced adsorption capabilities owing to the synergistic effects of graphene and polymer matrices. Activated carbon fibers, characterized by their high aspect ratio and interconnected porosity, provide efficient VOC removal with rapid kinetics. With their unique electronic and structural properties, graphitic carbon nitrides offer opportunities for photocatalytic degradation of VOCs under visible light. Catalysts integrated with MXene, a two-dimensional nanomaterial, exhibit enhanced catalytic activity for VOC oxidation reactions. Using various carbon-based materials in VOC removal showcases the versatility and effectiveness of carbon-based approaches in addressing environmental challenges associated with indoor air pollution. Metal-organic-framework materials are carbon-based compounds. It examines the correlation between VOC mineralization and specific characteristics of carbon materials, including surface area, adsorption capability, surface functional groups, and optoelectronic properties. Discussions include the basics of PCO, variables influencing how well catalysts degrade, and degradation mechanisms. It explores how technology will improve in the future to advance studies on healthy and sustainable indoor air quality.

Recent advances and progress on the design, fabrication and biomedical applications of Gallium liquid metals-based functional materials

Gallium (Ga) is a well-known liquid metals (LMs) that possesses the features, such as fluidity, low viscosity, high electrical and thermal conductivity, and relative low toxicity. Owing to the weak interactions between Ga atoms, Ga LMs can be adopted for fabrication of various Ga LMs-based functional materials via ultrasonic treatment and mechanical grinding. Moreover, many organic compounds/polymers can be coated on the surface of LMs-based materials through coordination between oxidized outlayers of Ga LMs and functional groups of organic components. Over the past decades, different strategies have been reported for synthesizing Ga LMs-based functional materials and their biomedical applications have been intensively investigated. Although some review articles have published over the past few years, a concise review is still needed to advance the latest developments in biomedical fields. The main context can be majorly divided into two parts. In the first section, various strategies for fabrication of Ga LMs-based functional materials via top-down strategies were introduced and discussed. Following that, biomedical applications of Ga LMs-based functional materials were summarized and design Ga LMs-based functional materials with enhanced performance for cancer photothermal therapy (PTT) and PTT combined therapy were highlighted. We trust this review article will be beneficial for scientists to comprehend this promising field and greatly advance future development for fabrication of other Ga LMs-based functional materials with better performance for biomedical applications.

Gold nanoparticles-doped MXene heterostructure for ultrasensitive electrochemical detection of fumonisin B1 and ampicillin

Early transition metal carbides (MXene) hybridized by precious metals open a door for innovative electrochemical biosensing device design. Herein, we present a facile one-pot synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)-doped two-dimensional (2D) titanium carbide MXene nanoflakes (Ti3C2Tx/Au). Ti3C2Tx MXene exhibits high electrical conductivity and yields synergistic signal amplification in conjunction with AuNPs leading to excellent electrochemical performance. Thus Ti3C2Tx/Au hybrid nanostructure can be used as an electrode platform for the electrochemical analysis of various targets. We used screen-printed electrodes modified with the Ti3C2Tx/Au electrode and functionalized with different biorecognition elements to detect and quantify an antibiotic, ampicillin (AMP), and a mycotoxin, fumonisin B1 (FB1). The ultralow limits of detection of 2.284 pM and 1.617 pg.mL-1, which we achieved respectively for AMP and FB1 are far lower than their corresponding maximum residue limits of 2.8 nM in milk and 2 to 4 mg kg-1 in corn products for human consumption set by the United States Food and Drug Administration. Additionally, the linear range of detection and quantification of AMP and FB1 were, respectively, 10 pM to 500 nM and 10 pg mL-1 to 1 µg mL-1. The unique structure and excellent electrochemical performance of Ti3C2Tx/Au nanocomposite suggest that it is highly suitable for anchoring biorecognition entities such as antibodies and oligonucleotides for monitoring various deleterious contaminants in agri-food products.

Exploring the structural characteristics and dye removal capabilities of powder-, granule- and film- shaped magnetic activated carbon derived from Oleaster seed

Dye pollution in water caused by excessive discharge of industrial effluent has become a major environmental problem in recent decades because of its irreversible effects on human health. In this study, low-cost carbon-based adsorbents synthesized from Oleaster seed (OS) were prepared in three forms of powder (PAC), film (FAC), and granule (GAC) and used for the removal of methylene blue dye. The properties of the synthesized adsorbents were characterized by SEM-EDX, BET, XPS and FTIR analyses. The maximum adsorption capacity (qmax) of PAC, FAC, and GAC adsorbents were obtained as 68.49, 32.25, and 15.10 mg/g, respectively at the optimum experimental conditions of pH = 10, adsorbent dosages of 0.5, 1, and 2 g/l, contact times of 60, 90, and 120 min, dye concentration of 10 mg/L, and temperature of 25°C. The Langmuir isotherm well described the equilibrium data for all three adsorbents. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model provided the best fit with the adsorption data obtained from all three adsorbents. Adsorption occurred spontaneously through a combination of chemical and physical mechanisms, with a thermodynamically exothermic process. The desorption experiments demonstrated that all the adsorbents have substantial potential for recovery. The novel activated carbon/alginate composite films are proposed as more promising biosorbents to remove MB dye from the aquatic environment compared to GAC adsorbents.

Recent strategies, progress, and prospects of two-dimensional metal carbides (MXenes) materials in wastewater purification: A review

With the rapid development of industrialization, water pollution directly leads to the serious shortage of fresh water. As reported by the World Water Council, nearly 3.8 billion people will face water scarcity by 2030. Therefore, developing advanced nanomaterials to realize wastewater purification is a major challenge. Two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides (MXenes), as the emerging 2D layered nanomaterials, have been investigated for the applications of water purification treatment since first reported in 2011. Over 40 different MXenes have been developed for environmental remediation, and dozens more structures and properties are theoretically predicted. Here, we review the advances from the aspects of synthesis strategies for MXenes, purification mechanism, and their applications in wastewater treatment processes. The major points are 1) the synthesis and modification approaches for MXenes such as multi-layered stacked MXenes and delaminated MXenes 2) a discussion of current water remediation over MXene-based materials, 3) a brief introduction for removal behaviors and deep interaction mechanisms, 4) optimization strategies and key points for boosting the remediation performance of MXenes.

Recent Advances in Photothermal Therapy at Near-Infrared-II Based on 2D MXenes

The use of photothermal therapy (PTT) with the near-infrared II region (NIR-II: 1000-1700 nm) is expected to be a powerful cancer treatment strategy. It retains the noninvasive nature and excellent temporal and spatial controllability of the traditional PTT, and offers significant advantages in terms of tissue penetration depth, background noise, and the maximum permissible exposure standards for skin. MXenes, transition-metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides are emerging inorganic nanomaterials with natural biocompatibility, wide spectral absorption, and a high photothermal conversion efficiency. The PTT of MXenes in the NIR-II region not only provides a valuable reference for exploring photothermal agents that respond to NIR-II in 2D inorganic nanomaterials, but also be considered as a promising biomedical therapy. First, the synthesis methods of 2D MXenes are briefly summarized, and the laser light source, mechanism of photothermal conversion, and evaluation criteria of photothermal performance are introduced. Second, the latest progress of PTT based on 2D MXenes in NIR-II are reviewed, including titanium carbide (Ti3 C2 ), niobium carbide (Nb2 C), and molybdenum carbide (Mo2 C). Finally, the main problems in the PTT application of 2D MXenes to NIR-II and future research directions are discussed.

Preparation of MgAl-LDHs loaded with blast furnace slag and its removal of Cu(II) and methylene blue from aqueous solution

Blast furnace slag (BFS) is a kind of waste produced in industrial production, as well as a valuable secondary resource. In this paper, layered double hydroxides composites (BFS/LDHs) were prepared by aqueous polymerization, with industrial waste BFS as modifier and magnesium nitrate, aluminium nitrate, and urea as raw materials. BFS/LDHs have been characterized by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), fourier infrared spectrometer (FT IR), x-ray diffraction (XRD), and the specific surface area analyser (BET). The adsorption of BFS/LDHs on Cu (II) and methylene blue (MB) was investigated by batch experiments. The results showed that the adsorption capacity of BFS/LDHs to Cu (II) is stronger than that of MB. What's more, the solid concentration effect was found in the process of sorption kinetics and sorption isotherms. The sorption kinetics curves of Cu (II) and MB on BFS/LDHs were well fitted by the quasi-second-order kinetics under different adsorbent concentrations. Langmuir and Freundlich sorption isotherm models were used to analyse the adsorption. It showed that the adsorption conforms to Langmuir and Freundlich's adsorption isotherm models. The BFS/LDHs composites have good recycling availability in this adsorption process of Cu (II) and MB, the removal capacity of which was reduced by 16.1% and 3.8% after being recycled for six times, respectively. More importantly, BFS/LDHs composites are not only expected to become a sewage treatment agent, but also to solve the problem of industrial waste treatment, which is a win-win strategy.

Environmental implications of metal-organic frameworks and MXenes in biomedical applications: a perspective

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and MXenes have demonstrated immense potential for biomedical applications, offering a plethora of advantages. MXenes, in particular, exhibit robust mechanical strength, hydrophilicity, large surface areas, significant light absorption potential, and tunable surface terminations, among other remarkable characteristics. Meanwhile, MOFs possess high porosity and large surface area, making them ideal for protecting active biomolecules and serving as carriers for drug delivery, hence their extensive study in the field of biomedicine. However, akin to other (nano)materials, concerns regarding their environmental implications persist. The number of studies investigating the toxicity and biocompatibility of MXenes and MOFs is growing, albeit further systematic research is needed to thoroughly understand their biosafety issues and biological effects prior to clinical trials. The synthesis of MXenes often involves the use of strong acids and high temperatures, which, if not properly managed, can have adverse effects on the environment. Efforts should be made to minimize the release of harmful byproducts and ensure proper waste management during the production process. In addition, it is crucial to assess the potential release of MXenes into the environment during their use in biomedical applications. For the biomedical applications of MOFs, several challenges exist. These include high fabrication costs, poor selectivity, low capacity, the quest for stable and water-resistant MOFs, as well as difficulties in recycling/regeneration and maintaining chemical/thermal/mechanical stability. Thus, careful consideration of the biosafety issues associated with their fabrication and utilization is vital. In addition to the synthesis and manufacturing processes, the ultimate utilization and fate of MOFs and MXenes in biomedical applications must be taken into account. While numerous reviews have been published regarding the biomedical applications of MOFs and MXenes, this perspective aims to shed light on the key environmental implications and biosafety issues, urging researchers to conduct further research in this field. Thus, the crucial aspects of the environmental implications and biosafety of MOFs and MXenes in biomedicine are thoroughly discussed, focusing on the main challenges and outlining future directions.

Atomic hydrogen-mediated enhanced electrocatalytic hydrodehalogenation on Pd@MXene electrodes

In this study, a Pd@MXene catalyst was synthesized to enhance the electrocatalytic hydrodehalogenation (ECH) of emerging halogenated organic pollutants (HOPs) by improving the dispersibility, catalytic activity, and stability of palladium (Pd). The average size of Pd nanoparticles (NPs) was reduced to 3.62 ± 0.34 nm with a more intensive peak of Pd (111), which facilitated atomic hydrogen (H*) production. The Pd@MX/CC electrode demonstrated superior ECH activity for diclofenac (DCF) degradation, with a reaction rate constant (kobs) 2.48 times higher than that of Pd/CC (without MXene). The satisfactory ECH performance of Pd@MX/CC remained consistent within a wide range of initial DCF concentrations (5-100 mg/L), and no significant ECH attenuation was observed even after up to 10 batches. Furthermore, the high activity of Pd@MX/CC was also observed in the ECH of other halogenated organic pollutants (levofloxacin, tetrabromobisphenol A, and diatrizoate). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that electronic configuration modulation of the Pd@MXene catalyst optimized binging energies to H* , DCF, and dechlorinated products, thereby enhancing the ECH efficiency of DCF.

Two-dimensional β-noble-transition-metal chalcogenide: novel highly stable semiconductors with manifold outstanding optoelectronic properties and strong in-plane anisotropy

In this work, five two-dimensional (2D) noble-transition-metal chalcogenide (NTMC) semiconductors, namely β-NX (N = Au, Ag; X = S, Se, Te), were designed and predicted by first-principles simulations. Structurally, the monolayer β-NX materials have good energetic, mechanical, dynamical, and thermal stability. They contain two inequivalent noble-transition-metal atoms in the unit cell, and the N-X bond comprises a partial ionic bond and a partial covalent bond. Regarding the electronic properties, the β-NX materials are indirect-band-gap semiconductors with appropriate band-gap values. They have tiny electron effective masses. The hole effective masses exhibit significant differences in different directions, indicating strongly anisotropic hole mobility. In addition, the coexistence of linear and square-planar channels means that the diffusion and transport of carriers should be anisotropic. In terms of optical properties, the β-NX materials show high absorption coefficients. The absorption and reflection characteristics reveal strong anisotropy in different directions. Therefore, the β-NX materials are indirect-band-gap semiconductors with good stability, high absorption coefficients, and strong mechanical, electronic, transport, and optical anisotropy. In the future, they could have great potential as 2D semiconductors in nano-electronics and nano-optoelectronics.

Recent advancements in MXene-based nanocomposites as photocatalysts for hazardous pollutant degradation - A review

The recent expeditious industrialization and urbanization showcase the increasing need for renewable and non-renewable energy and the severe environmental crisis. In this regard, numerous 2-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have been developed as a facile approach to meet the futuristic energy essentials and to resolve the crisis. In contrast, the newly explored 2D MXenes (transition metal carbide/nitrides/carbonitride) have been employed as an intriguing material for various environmental applications. This development is accredited to their unique properties, which include a vast surface area, strong electrical conductivity, fascinating photophysical properties, high mechanical properties, stability in an aqueous medium, high hydrophilicity, biocompatibility, ease of functionalization, and excellent thermal properties. MXenes act as a potential candidate in water desalination, energy storage devices such as electrodes of Li-ion batteries and pseudo capacitors, hydrogen production, sensors, and wastewater treatment. This review article deliberates the synthesis of MXene and nanocomposites of MXene and their photo-catalytic actions against various toxic pollutants such as organic dyes and heavy metals in wastewater. This review also precises the various preparation methods of MXene-based photocatalyst and the enhanced photocatalytic activity of MXene and MXene-based nanocomposites in wastewater treatment. Also, it details the attempts made to improve the photocatalytic activity of MXene-based nanocomposites in terms of their structural compositions. In addition, the merits and demerits of the MXene-based photocatalysts are deliberated, which may pave the way for future research in this arena.

Development of high-capacity surface-engineered MXene composite for heavy metal Cr (VI) removal from industrial wastewater

The substantial quantity of Cr(VI) contaminants in the aqueous atmosphere is a major environmental fear that cannot be overlooked. For the first time, MXene and chitosan-coated polyurethane foam have been employed for wastewater treatment, including heavy metal ions (Cr (VI)) through a fixed-bed column study. It is also the most inexpensive, lightweight, and globally friendly material tested. The Mxene and chitosan-coated polyurethane foam hybrid materials were thoroughly investigated using FTIR (Fourier transform infrared), SEM (scanning electron microscope), XPS (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) and XRD (X-ray diffraction). The presence of the rough surface and the pore creation in the Mxene- MX₃@CS₃@PUF should rise its surface area, which is useful to interact the surface-active assembly of MX₃@CS₃@PUF and the Cr(VI) contaminations in the aqueous solution. With the help of the ion exchange mechanism and electrostatic contact, negatively charged MXene hexavalent ions were being adsorbed on the surface. MXene and chitosan have been coated on PUF foam in the form of three different layers, which shows the highest adsorption capacity, where up to ∼70% Cr (VI) was removed in the first 10 min and more than 60% elimination after 3 h when the metal ion concentration was 20 ppm. The electrostatic interaction between the negative charge MXene and the positive charge chitosan on the surface of PUF, which was absent in MX@PUF, is accountable for the high removal efficiency. This was done through a sequence of fixed-bed column studies, which took place in the continuous flowing of wastewater.

Delamination of multilayer Ti3C2Tx MXene alters its adsorpiton and reduction of heavy metals in water

MXenes are considered as an emerging class of two-dimensional (2D) adsorbent for various environmental applications. In this work, two different morphologies of Ti₃C₂T_x MXene (multilayer (ML-Ti₃C₂T_x) and delaminated titanium carbide (DL-Ti₃C₂T_x)) were prepared through mild in situ HF etching and further delamination. The structural differences between the two were explored with a focus on their effects on the performance and mechanism of removing heavy metals from water. In comparison to ML-Ti₃C₂T_x, DL-Ti₃C₂T_x had more oxygen-containing functional groups, higher specific surface area (19.713 vs. 8.243 m²/g), larger pore volume (0.135 vs. 0.040 cm³/g), higher maximum Pb(II) adsorption capacity (77.0 vs. 56.68 mg/g), but lower maximum Cu(II) adsorption capacity (23.08 vs. 55.46 mg/g). Further investigation revealed that the removal of Pb(II) by the MXenes was mainly controlled through electrostatic attraction and surface complexation mechanisms, while Cu(II) was removed mainly through surface reduction by Ti-related groups. Because delamination of ML-Ti₃C₂T_x increased the surface area and surface functional groups, DL-Ti₃C₂T_x became a better sorbent for Pb(II) in water. During sonication, however, delamination inevitably led to partial oxidation of Ti₃C₂T_x nanosheets and thus weakened the reducing ability of DL-Ti₃C₂T_x for Cu(II) in water. Nevertheless, both ML- and DL-Ti₃C₂T_x not only exhibited excellent heavy metal adsorption capacity under different solution conditions, but also showed good reusability. Findings of this study indicate that Ti₃C₂T_x MXenes are promising adsorbents for treating heavy metal pollutants in water.

The enhanced visible light driven photocatalytic activity of zinc porphyrin/g-C3N4 nanosheet for efficient bacterial infected wound healing

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) has received much attention as a metal-free polymeric two-dimensional photocatalyst for antibiotic-free antibacterial application. However, the weak photocatalytic antibacterial activity of pure g-C₃N₄ stimulated by visible light limits its applications. Herein, g-C₃N₄ is modified with Zinc (II) meso-tetrakis (4-carboxyphenyl) porphyrin (ZnTCPP) by amidation reaction to enhance the utilization of visible light and reduce the recombination of electron-hole pairs. The composite (ZP/CN) is used to treat bacterial infection under visible light irradiation with a high efficacy of 99.99% within 10 min due to the enhanced photocatalytic activity. Ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy and density flooding theory calculations indicate the excellent electrical conductivity between the interface of ZnTCPP and g-C₃N₄. The formed built-in electric field is responsible for the high visible photocatalytic performance of ZP/CN. In vitro and in vivo tests have demonstrated that ZP/CN not only possesses excellent antibacterial activity upon visible light irradiation, but also facilitates the angiogenesis. In addition, ZP/CN also suppresses the inflammatory response. Therefore, this inorganic-organic material can serve as a promising platform for effective healing of bacteria-infected wounds.

Cytocompatibility of Ti3C2Tx MXene with Red Blood Cells and Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells and the Underlying Mechanisms

Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have been widely used in biomedical applications because of their biocompatibility. Considering the high risk of exposure of the circulatory system to Ti3C2Tx, we studied the cytocompatibility of Ti3C2Tx MXene with red blood cells (RBCs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and showed that Ti3C2Tx had excellent compatibility with the two cell lines. Ti3C2Tx at a concentration as high as 200 μg/mL caused a negligible percent hemolysis of 0.8%. By contrast, at the same treatment concentration, graphene oxide (GO) caused a high percent hemolysis of 50.8%. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that RBC structures remained intact in the Ti3C2Tx treatment group, whereas those in the GO group completely deformed, sunk, and shrunk, which resulted in the release of cell contents. This difference can be largely ascribed to the distinct surficial properties of the two nanosheets. In specific, the fully covered surface-terminating -O and -OH groups leading to Ti3C2Tx had a very hydrophilic surface, thereby hindering its penetration into the highly hydrophobic interior of the cell membrane. However, the strong direct van der Waals attractions coordinated with hydrophobic interactions between the unoxidized regions of GO and the lipid hydrophobic tails can still damage the integrity of the cell membranes. In addition, the sharp and keen-edged corners of GO may also facilitate its relatively strong cell membrane damage effects than Ti3C2Tx. Thus, the excellent cell membrane compatibility of Ti3C2Tx nanosheets and their ultraweak capacity to provoke excessive ROS generation endowed them with much better compatibility with HUVECs than GO nanosheets. These results indicate that Ti3C2Tx has much better cytocompatibility than GO and provide a valuable reference for the future biomedical applications of Ti3C2Tx.

Latest advances on MXenes in biomedical research and health care

The unique combination of physical and chemical properties of MXenes has propelled a growing number of applications in biomedicine and healthcare. The expanding library of MXenes with tunable properties is paving the way for high-performance, application-specific MXene-based sensing and therapeutic platforms. In this article, we highlight the emerging biomedical applications of MXenes with specific emphasis on bioelectronics, biosensors, tissue engineering, and therapeutics. We present examples of MXenes and their composites enabling novel technological platforms and therapeutic strategies, and elucidate potential avenues for further developments. Finally, we discuss the materials, manufacturing, and regulatory challenges that need to be synergistically addressed for the clinical translation of MXene-based biomedical technologies.

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Effective Removal of Sulfonamides Using Recyclable MXene-Decorated Bismuth Ferrite Nanocomposites Prepared via Hydrothermal Method

Developing a simple and efficient method for removing organic micropollutants from aqueous systems is crucial. The present study describes the preparation and application, for the first time, of novel MXene-decorated bismuth ferrite nanocomposites (BiFeO₃/MXene) for the removal of six sulfonamides including sulfadiazine (SDZ), sulfathiazole (STZ), sulfamerazine (SMZ), sulfamethazine (SMTZ), sulfamethoxazole (SMXZ) and sulfisoxazole (SXZ). The properties of BiFeO₃/MXene are enhanced by the presence of BiFeO₃ nanoparticles, which provide a large surface area to facilitate the removal of sulfonamides. More importantly, BiFeO₃/MXene composites demonstrated remarkable sulfonamide adsorption capabilities compared to pristine MXene, which is due to the synergistic effect between BiFeO₃ and MXene. The kinetics and isotherm models of sulfonamide adsorption on BiFeO₃/MXene are consistent with a pseudo-second-order kinetics and Langmuir model. BiFeO₃/MXene had appreciable reusability after five adsorption-desorption cycles. Furthermore, BiFeO₃/MXene is stable and retains its original properties upon desorption. The present work provides an effective method for eliminating sulfonamides from water by exploiting the excellent texture properties of BiFeO₃/MXene.

New insights into MXene applications for sustainable environmental remediation

Multiple ecological contaminants in gaseous, liquid, and solid forms are vented into ecosystems due to the huge growth of industrialization, which is today at the forefront of worldwide attention. High-efficiency removal of these environmental pollutants is a must because of the potential harm to public health and biodiversity. The alarming concern has led to the synthesis of improved nanomaterials for removing pollutants. A path to innovative methods for identifying and preventing several obnoxious, hazardous contaminants from entering the environment is grabbing attention. Various applications in diverse industries are seen as a potential directions for researchers. MXene is a new, excellent, and advanced material that has received greater importance related to the environmental application. Due to its unique physicochemical and mechanical properties, high specific surface area, physiological compatibility, strong electrodynamics, and raised specific surface area wettability, its applications are growing. This review paper examines the most recent methods and trends for environmental pollutant removal using advanced 2D Mxene materials. In addition, the history and the development of MXene synthesis were elaborated. Furthermore, an extreme summary of various environmental pollutants removal has been discussed, and the future challenges along with their future perspectives have been illustrated.

MXene-Based Ink Design for Printed Applications

MXenes are a class of two-dimensional nanomaterials with a rich chemistry, hydrophilic surface and mechano-ceramic nature, and have been employed in a wide variety of applications ranging from medical and sensing devises to electronics, supercapacitors, electromagnetic shielding, and environmental applications, to name a few. To date, the main focus has mostly been paid to studying the chemical and physical properties of MXenes and MXene-based hybrids, while relatively less attention has been paid to the optimal application forms of these materials. It has been frequently observed that MXenes show great potential as inks when dispersed in solution. The present paper aims to comprehensively review the recent knowledge about the properties, applications and future horizon of inks based on 2D MXene sheets. In terms of the layout of the current paper, 2D MXenes have briefly been presented and followed by introducing the formulation of MXene inks, the process of turning MAX to MXene, and ink compositions and preparations. The chemical, tribological and rheological properties have been deeply discussed with an eye to the recent developments of the MXene inks in energy, health and sensing applications. The review ends with a summary of research pitfalls, challenges, and future directions in this area.

MXene-Based Nucleic Acid Biosensors for Agricultural and Food Systems

MXene is a two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterial that exhibits several superior properties suitable for fabricating biosensors. Likewise, the nucleic acid (NA) in oligomerization forms possesses highly specific biorecognition ability and other features amenable to biosensing. Hence the combined use of MXene and NA is becoming increasingly common in biosensor design and development. In this review, MXene- and NA-based biosensors are discussed in terms of their sensing mechanisms and fabrication details. MXenes are introduced from their definition and synthesis process to their characterization followed by their use in NA-mediated biosensor fabrication. The emphasis is placed on the detection of various targets relevant to agricultural and food systems, including microbial pathogens, chemical toxicants, heavy metals, organic pollutants, etc. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives are presented with an eye toward the development of advanced biosensors with improved detection performance.

Thermoresponsive MXene composite system with high adsorption capacity for quick and simple removal of toxic metal ions from aqueous environment

High-performance adsorption and easy-to-recycle property of adsorbents are desirable in wastewater treatment, and a suitably smart adsorbent with responsive phase separation capacity is promising in this regard. Herein, a thermoresponsive composite system is designed through the combination of transition metal carbides (MXene) and poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) for removal of toxic metal ions from water. As a thermoresponsive switch, the PNIPAM endows such composite system with superior thermoresponsiveness (i.e., gel-water phase separation) in water, which facilitates to the control of adsorption. The gel phase triggered by an elevated temperature (e.g., 40 °C) quickly adsorbs toxic metal ions, and then a solid-liquid extraction way is used to conveniently separated the gel phase from water phase for simple removal of toxic metal ions. A very high adsorption capacity (e.g., ~224 mg·g^-1 for Cu²⁺) can be achieved due to the synergistic effects of the composite system. Moreover, the separated gel can be back to a redispersed state at low temperature (e.g., 20 °C), enabling its effective regeneration and recovery. Notably, the PNIPAM as a protective agent prevents the oxidation of MXene so as to retain good stability during the multiple adsorption/desorption cycles. This simple and smart adsorption strategy is great promising for water purification application.

MXenes Thin Films: From Fabrication to Their Applications

Two-dimensional MXenes possessed exceptional physiochemical properties such as high electrical conductivity (20,000 Scm-1), flexibility, mechanical strength (570 MPa), and hydrophilic surface functionalities that have been widely explored for energy storage, sensing, and catalysis applications. Recently, the fabrication of MXenes thin films has attracted significant attention toward electronic devices and sensor applications. This review summarizes the exciting features of MXene thin film fabrication methods such as vacuum-assisted filtration (VAF), electrodeposition techniques, spin coating, spray coating, dip-coating methods, and other physical/chemical vapor deposition methods. Furthermore, a comparison between different methods available for synthesizing a variety of MXenes films was discussed in detail. This review further summarizes fundamental aspects and advances of MXenes thin films in solar cells, batteries, electromagnetic interference shielding, sensing, etc., to date. Finally, the challenges and opportunities in terms of future research, development, and applications of MXenes-based films are discussed. A comprehensive understanding of these competitive features and challenges shall provide guidelines and inspiration for further growth in MXenes-based functional thin films and contribute to the advances in MXenes technology.

Graphene Nanobeacons with High-Affinity Pockets for Combined, Selective, and Effective Decontamination and Reagentless Detection of Heavy Metals

Access to clean water for drinking, sanitation, and irrigation is a major sustainable development goal of the United Nations. Thus, technologies for cleaning water and quality-monitoring must become widely accessible and of low-cost, while being effective, selective, sustainable, and eco-friendly. To meet this challenge, hetero-bifunctional nanographene fluorescent beacons with high-affinity pockets for heavy metals are developed, offering top-rated and selective adsorption for cadmium and lead, reaching 870 and 450 mg g^-1 , respectively. The heterobifunctional and multidentate pockets also operate as selective gates for fluorescence signal regulation with sub-nanomolar sensitivity (0.1 and 0.2 nm for Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ , respectively), due to binding affinities as low as those of antigen-antibody interactions. Importantly, the acid-proof nanographenes can be fully regenerated and reused. Their broad visible-light absorption offers an additional mode for water-quality monitoring based on ultra-low cost and user-friendly reagentless paper detection with the naked-eye at a limit of detection of 1 and 10 ppb for Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ ions, respectively. This work shows that photoactive nanomaterials, densely-functionalized with strong, yet selective ligands for targeted contaminants, can successfully combine features such as excellent adsorption, reusability, and sensing capabilities, in a way to extend the material's applicability, its life-cycle, and value-for-money.

Perspectives and Trends in Advanced MXenes-Based Optical Biosensors for the Recognition of Food Contaminants

Fabricating novel biosensing constructs with high sensitivity and selectivity is highly demanded in food contaminants detection. In this prospect, various nanostructured materials were envisaged to build (bio)sensors with superior sensitivity and selectivity. The desirable biocompatibility, brilliant mechanical strength, ease of surface functionalization, as well as tunable optical and electronic features, portray 2D MXenes as versatile scaffolds for biosensing. In this review, we overviewed the state-of-the-art MXenes-based optical biosensing devices to detect mycotoxins, pesticide residues, antibiotic residues, and food borne-pathogens from foodstuff and environmental matrices. Firstly, the synthesis methods and surface functionalization/modification of MXenes are discussed. Secondly, according to the target analytes, we categorized and presented a detailed account of the newest research progress of MXenes-based optical probes for food contaminants monitoring. The efficiency of all the surveyed probes was assessed on the basis of important factors like response time, detection limit (DL), and sensing range. Lastly, the necessity and requirements for future advances in this emerging MXenes material are also given, followed by challenges and opportunities. We hope that this study will bridge the gap between nanotechnology and food science, offering insights for engineers or scientists in both areas to accelerate the progress of MXenes-based materials for food safety detection.

Surface Functionalized MXenes for Wastewater Treatment-A Comprehensive Review

Over 80% of wastewater worldwide is released into the environment without proper treatment. Whilst environmental pollution continues to intensify due to the increase in the number of polluting industries, conventional techniques employed to clean the environment are poorly effective and are expensive. MXenes are a new class of 2D materials that have received a lot of attention for an extensive range of applications due to their tuneable interlayer spacing and tailorable surface chemistry. Several MXene-based nanomaterials with remarkable properties have been proposed, synthesized, and used in environmental remediation applications. In this work, a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art research progress on the promising potential of surface functionalized MXenes as photocatalysts, adsorbents, and membranes for wastewater treatment is presented. The sources, composition, and effects of wastewater on human health and the environment are displayed. Furthermore, the synthesis, surface functionalization, and characterization techniques of merit used in the study of MXenes are discussed, detailing the effects of a range of factors (e.g., PH, temperature, precursor, etc.) on the synthesis, surface functionalization, and performance of the resulting MXenes. Finally, the limits of MXenes and MXene-based materials as well as their potential future research directions, especially for wastewater treatment applications are highlighted.

Functionalization of MXene-based nanomaterials for the treatment of micropollutants in aquatic system: A review

The increased industrialization and urbanization generate a larger quantity of effluent that is discharged into the environment regularly. Based on the effluent composition produced from various industries, the number of hazardous substances such as heavy metals, hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds, organic chemicals, microorganisms introduced into the aquatic systems vary. The conventional wastewater treatment systems do not meet the effluent standards before discharge and require a different treatment system before reuse. Adsorption is an eco-friendly technique that uses selective adsorbents to remove hazardous pollutants even at microscale levels. MXene, a 2-Dimensional nanomaterial with resplendent properties like conductivity, hydrophilicity, stability, and functionalized surface characteristics, is found as a potential candidate for pollutant removal systems. This review discusses the fabrication, characterization, and application of MXene based nanoparticles to remove many pollutants in water treatment systems. The improvement in surface properties and adsorption capacity of MXene based NPs, when modified using different modification agents, has also been discussed. Their feasibility in terms of economic and environmental aspects has been evaluated to understand their scope for practical application in large-scale industries. The challenges towards the synthesis and toxicity's importance have been discussed, with the appropriate recommendations.

Insight into UV-induced simultaneous photocatalytic degradation of Ti3C2Tx MXene and reduction of U(VI)

With the development of MXene as the efficient adsorbent for U(VI), the tendency of MXene coming into contact with U(VI) in wastewaters increases. Motivated by UV light irradiation applied in wastewater treatments, the UV light induced photochemical co-transformation of Ti₃C₂T_x MXene and U(VI) is studied. To clarify the role of U(VI) induced Ti₃C₂T_x aggregation in phototransformation of Ti₃C₂T_x, the aggregation kinetics of Ti₃C₂T_x in the presence of various valent radioactive ions are investigated, obtaining the critical coagulation concentrations (CCC) of Ti₃C₂T_x for Cs⁺, Sr²⁺, UO₂²⁺, Eu³⁺, and Th⁴⁺. Besides, the colloidal stability of UV-induced Ti₃C₂T_x as a function of standing time is discussed. The results show that the aggregation behavior of Ti₃C₂T_x induced by radioactive ions follows the classical Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (DLVO) theory and the Schulze-Hardy rule. The UV irradiation will change the physicochemical properties and colloidal stabilities of Ti₃C₂T_x. Furthermore, the degradation of Ti₃C₂T_x can be accelerated by UV irradiation and further promoted by the presence of U(VI). The removal of U(VI) is highest in the case of Ti₃C₂T_x combined with UV irradiation via adsorption and reduction. This study provides an example demonstrating that the simultaneous transformation of Ti₃C₂T_x (adsorbent) and U(VI) (adsorbate) to mild toxic components.

Ti3C2Tx MXene Liquid Crystal: Access to Create Background-Free and Easy-Made Alignment Medium

The formation of lyotropic liquid crystals (LCs) in two-dimensional (2D) colloidal dispersions enables the production of mesoscopic/macroscopic ordered materials from nanoscale building blocks. In contrast to graphene oxide (GO) LCs, the practical applications of MXene LCs are less exploited. This study bridges the gap by utilizing a simple and versatile fabrication method to prepare Ti₃C₂T_x MXene LC that can be applied as a background-free alignment medium for the residual dipolar coupling (RDC) measurement of organic molecules. Ti₃C₂T_x LC displays the size- and concentration-dependent alignment degree. Ti₃C₂T_x nanoflakes with an average size of around 600 nm can provide the quadrupolar ²H splitting of 71 Hz at a concentration of 50 mg/mL and show excellent fluidity at such a high concentration. Compared with other alignment media, Ti₃C₂T_x LC exhibits the features of no-background and narrow line broadening, which actualizes the acquirement of clean and high-quality NMR spectra for the accurate RDC extraction. Notably, the alignment of LCs is determined to be maintainable in the redispersed solution after freeze-drying, providing the great convenience for the preparation of alignment Ti₃C₂T_x media, long-term sample preservation, and quantitative evaluation of alignment degree. Meanwhile, the alignment LC media for RDC measurement can be established in other MXenes such as Ti₂CT_x and Ti₃CNT_x. Collectively, our findings demonstrate the potential of creating various alignment media from the fascinating MXene family.

Tuning the Electronic and Optical Properties of the Novel Monolayer Noble-Transition-Metal Dichalcogenides Semiconductor β-AuSe via Strain: A Computational Investigation

The strain-controlled structural, electronic, and optical characteristics of monolayer β-AuSe are systematically studied using first-principles calculations in this paper. For the strain-free monolayer β-AuSe, the structure is dynamically stable and maintains good stability at room temperature. It belongs to the indirect band gap semiconductor, and its valence band maximum (VBM) and conduction band minimum (CBM) consist of hybrid Au-d and Se-p electrons. Au–Se is a partial ionic bond and a partial polarized covalent bond. Meanwhile, lone-pair electrons exist around Se and are located between different layers. Moreover, its optical properties are anisotropic. As for the strained monolayer β-AuSe, it is susceptible to deformation by uniaxial tensile strain. It remains the semiconductor when applying different strains within an extensive range; however, only the biaxial compressive strain is beyond −12%, leading to a semiconductor–semimetal transition. Furthermore, it can maintain relatively stable optical properties under a high strain rate, whereas the change in optical properties is unpredictable when applying different strains. Finally, we suggest that the excellent carrier transport properties of the strain-free monolayer β-AuSe and the stable electronic properties of the strained monolayer β-AuSe originate from the p–d hybridization effect. Therefore, we predict that monolayer β-AuSe is a promising flexible semiconductive photoelectric material in the high-efficiency nano-electronic and nano-optoelectronic fields.

Roles of Metal Ions in MXene Synthesis, Processing and Applications: A Perspective

With a decade of effort, significant progress has been achieved in the synthesis, processing, and applications of MXenes. Metal ions play many crucial roles, such as in MXene delamination, structure regulation, surface modification, MXene composite construction, and even some unique applications. The different roles of metal ions are attributed to their many interactions with MXenes and the unique nature of MXenes, including their layered structure, surface chemistry, and the existence of multi-valent transition metals. Interactions with metal ions are crucial for the energy storage of MXene electrodes, especially in metal ion batteries and supercapacitors with neutral electrolytes. This review aims to provide a good understanding of the interactions between metal ions and MXenes, including the classification and fundamental chemistry of their interactions, in order to achieve their more effective utilization and rational design. It also provides new perspectives on MXene evolution and exfoliation, which may suggest optimized synthesis strategies. In this respect, the different effects of metal ions on MXene synthesis and processing are clarified, and the corresponding mechanisms are elaborated. Research progress on the roles metal ions have in MXene applications is also introduced.

Novel synthesis methods and applications of MXene-based nanomaterials (MBNs) for hazardous pollutants degradation: Future perspectives

MXenes are a quickly growing and extended group of two-dimensional (2D) substances that have earned unbelievable analysis credits for various application areas within different manufacturing areas. Due to novel essential architectural and physicochemical properties shows good properties, such as elevated exterior area, living adaptability, strong electrochemistry, and great hydrophilicity. Given the fast progress within the structure and synthesis of MBNs for water treatment, quick updates on this research field are required to remove toxic substances, such as production approaches and characterization methods for the advantages and constraints of MXenes for pollutant degradation. MXenes are determined as a proposed road toward atmosphere-clean-up machinery to identify and decrease a pattern of hazardous resistant pollutants from environmental forms. Here, in this review article, we have been focused on describing the overview, novel synthesis methods, and characteristics of the MXene-based nanomaterials (MBNs) in the field for removing hazardous contaminants from environmental conditions. In the last, the utilizations of MBNs in water sanitization, organic solvent filtration, antibiotics degradation, pesticide degradation, heavy metals degradation, ions removal, bacterial pathogens degradation, along with the conclusion, challenges, and prospects in this field, have been discussed.

MXenes as emerging nanomaterials in water purification and environmental remediation

Environmental pollution has accelerated and intensified because of the acceleration of industrialization, therefore fabricating excellent materials to remove hazardous pollutants has become inevitable. MXenes as emerging transition metal nitrides, carbides or carbonitrides with high conductivity, hydrophilicity, excellent structural stability, and versatile surface chemistry, become ideal candidates for water purification and environmental remediation. Particularly, MXenes reveal excellent sorption capability and efficient reduction performance for various contaminants of wastewater. In this regard, a comprehensive understanding of the removal behaviors of MXene-based nanomaterials is necessary to explain how they remove various pollutants in water. The eliminate process of MXene-based nanomaterials is collectively influenced by the physicochemical properties of the materials themselves and the chemical properties of different contaminants. Therefore, in this review paper, the synthesis strategies and properties of MXene-based nanomaterials are briefly introduced. Then, the chemical properties, removal behaviors and interaction mechanisms of heavy metal ions, radionuclides, and organic pollutants by MXene-based nanomaterials are highlighted. The overview also emphasizes associated toxicity, secondary contamination, the challenges, and prospects of the MXene-based nanomaterials in the applications of water treatment. This review can supply valuable ideas for fabricating versatile MXene nanomaterials in eliminating water pollution.

Facile synthesis of a novel BaSnO3/MXene nanocomposite by electrostatic self-assembly for efficient photodegradation of 4-nitrophenol

Photocatalysis is regarded as one of the most effective strategies for the removal of the toxic organic pollutants from aqueous solutions. However, a lack of the efficient photocatalysts prevents the widespread practical application. Herein, the electrostatic self-assembly method has been designed for facile synthesis of a novel BaSnO₃/PDDA/MXene (BSO/P/MX) nanocomposite as high efficient photocatalyst. In this nanocomposite, the BaSnO₃ (BSO), poly (dimethyl-diallylammonium chloride) (PDDA) and MXene (Ti₃C₂T_x) act as the active species, structure stabilizer and efficient electron transfer medium, respectively. Due to the strong synergy of the nanocomposite, the electron-transferring ability as well as the charge separation efficiency is boosted and thus high catalytic activity achieves towards the photodegradation of 4-nitrophenol. The superior degradation rate of 98.8% and a rate constant K of 0.09113 min^-1 have been realized within 75 min of ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation over the BSO/P/MX-8% catalyst. This as-prepared nanocomposite with the excellent catalytic activity can be employed as a promising photocatalyst for treating the organic pollutants from aqueous solutions.

Bentonite-titanium dioxide functional nanocomposite suitable for wastewater treatment; An integrated photocatalyst-adsorbent system

An integrated photocatalytic adsorbent system prepared from bentonite clay and titanium dioxide was used for the adsorption/degradation of model organic pollutants and adsorption of heavy metals from industrial wastewater. The...

Iron oxide (Fe3O4)-laden titanium carbide (Ti3C2Tx) MXene stacks for the efficient sequestration of cationic dyes from aqueous solution

We prepared two-dimensional (2D) stack-structured magnetic iron oxide (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticle anchored titanium carbide (Ti₃C₂T_x) MXene material (Ti₃C₂T_x/Fe₃O₄). It was used as a potential adsorbent to remove carcinogenic cationic dyes, such as methylene blue (MB) and rhodamine B (Rh B), from aqueous solutions. Ti₃C₂T_x/Fe₃O₄ exhibited maximum adsorption capacities of 153 and 86 mg g^-1 for MB and Rh B dyes, respectively. Batch adsorption experimental data fits the Langmuir model well, revealing monolayer adsorption of MB and Rh B onto the adsorption sites of Ti₃C₂T_x/Fe₃O₄. Additionally, Ti₃C₂T_x/Fe₃O₄ showed rapid MB/Rh B adsorption kinetics and attained equilibrium within 45 min. Moreover, Ti₃C₂T_x/Fe₃O₄ demonstrated recyclability over four cycles with high stability due to the presence of magnetic Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles. Furthermore, it exhibited remarkable selectivities of 91% and 88% in the presence of co-existing cationic and anionic dyes, respectively. Given the extraordinary adsorption capacities, Ti₃C₂T_x/Fe₃O₄ may be a promising material for the effective removal of cationic dyes from aqueous media.

Bibliometric analysis and recent trends on MXene research - A comprehensive review

MXene, identified as a high performance material with superior properties, has gained significant importance in the field of applications including energy storage, photo catalysis, sensing of components and environmental pollution control. This review article is a comprehensive study on scientometric review on the research studies involving MXene and its derivatives for various applications. The aim of this study is to identify the areas of priority focused during the study period (2012-2020) and evaluate the impact of the studies in terms of different parameters. Using the suitable key words, a total of 3332 documents are identified and screened with respect to yearly count of literature, type of literature, language of publication, authors, Web of science (WoS) categories, most cited literature, author contribution, name of the affiliated institution, country of author affiliation, journals and key words. In addition, collaboration behavior and citation network are reviewed using the mapping tool. The total local citation score (TLCS) and total global citation score (TGCS) are evaluated. Based on the review data, the developments in the field of MXene applications are presented with more focus on sensing applications and photocatalysis. The top two contributing countries in the chosen field of MXene research are China and USA. Based on the number of documents published, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces and Journal of Materials Chemistry "A" are identified as the best two journals.

Photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine-B by visible light assisted peroxymonosulfate activation using Z-scheme MIL-100(Fe)/Bi2S3 composite: a combined experimental and theoretical approach

The photocatalytic efficiency of binary MIL-100(Fe)/Bi2S3 (MIL-BS) composite was utilized towards visible light assisted peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation and degradation of Rhodamine-B (RhB) dye. The binary catalyst, with 10wt% Bi2S3 (MIL-BS(10)),...

Recent advances in precursor-derived ceramics integrated with two-dimensional materials

This review focused on the recent advances in precursor-derived ceramics integrated with two-dimensional materials. Their fabrication methods, structures and applications were discussed in detail and the perspectives in this field were presented.