<scp>MXenes</scp>for Catalysis and Electrocatalysis

Abstract

MXenes are fast-emerging two-dimensional materials with high expectations of impacting future technologies especially in the area of energy storage, water splitting, conversion, and reaction catalysis. MXenes are highly promising catalysts and are useful for various heterogeneous electrocatalytic and catalytic processes. In recent times, MXenes have been studied for potential applications in various organic and inorganic reactions, and the mechanisms of the reactions have also been attempted. Such outstanding applications are due to some of their unique properties such as remarkable electrical conductivity, stability in various chemical environments, structural stability, and large surface area. There are several factors that affect the physicochemical properties of MXenes such as nature of functional groups, conductivity, and nature of interface amongst others. Some of their electrocatalytic properties have been improved through processes such as active site optimization, surface doping, and increasing the number of active sites. Most of the available studies have focused on various areas of applications of MXenes such as storage of energy and sensors. There are limited works and literature on their applications in catalysis and electrocatalysis. This chapter discusses the applications of MXenes in various catalytic and electrocatalytic processes. Their methods of synthesis and strategies for enhancing their efficiencies are also discussed. It also highlights some of the future trends in this regard.