MXene-Based Ink Design for Printed Applications

Abstract

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.

Recent Advances in MXenes Based Composites as Photocatalysts: Synthesis, Properties and Photocatalytic Removal of Organic Contaminants from Wastewater

“…Unlike graphene-based nanomaterials, MXene can reach a layer thickness of 3, 5, or 7 atoms, allowing for enhanced catalytic performance and versatility. [57][58][59][60] One notable advantage of MXene is that it can be used as a photocatalyst without the need for expensive metallic components. This makes it an attractive and cost-effective option for various applications.…”

3D printing aqueous Ti3C2Tx inks for MXene-based energy devices

“…Critical parameters, such as precursors, solvents, and additives, have led to attempts to produce functionalized inks with specialized properties. 5,14 Examples have been demonstrated in two-dimensional (2D) materials, such as graphene and black phosphorus, being explored for their potential as nanoadditives in different printing inks. [14][15][16] However, the hydrophobic nature of these particles requires additional fine-tuning (e.g., surface functionalization) to achieve desired dispersion stability, rheological processability, and functional properties, which have motivated the search for candidates that can be utilized without complex preparation or property sacrifices.…”

“…5,14 Examples have been demonstrated in two-dimensional (2D) materials, such as graphene and black phosphorus, being explored for their potential as nanoadditives in different printing inks. [14][15][16] However, the hydrophobic nature of these particles requires additional fine-tuning (e.g., surface functionalization) to achieve desired dispersion stability, rheological processability, and functional properties, which have motivated the search for candidates that can be utilized without complex preparation or property sacrifices. 14 A relatively new family of two-dimensional (2D) MXene nanoparticles (NPs), based on metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides, have been deemed suitable for this purpose.…”

“…[14][15][16] However, the hydrophobic nature of these particles requires additional fine-tuning (e.g., surface functionalization) to achieve desired dispersion stability, rheological processability, and functional properties, which have motivated the search for candidates that can be utilized without complex preparation or property sacrifices. 14 A relatively new family of two-dimensional (2D) MXene nanoparticles (NPs), based on metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides, have been deemed suitable for this purpose. 17,18 The unique combination of properties, such as hydrophilic behavior resulting from surface terminations while retaining excellent electrical conductivity due to the fast mobility of charge carriers, makes MXenes an ideal additive for conductive inks.…”

“…As mentioned earlier in the report, the unique properties of MXenes (e.g., hydrophilicity, high surface charge due to terminations) allow them to be applied and deposited on different substrates. 14,17,19,39 Inks were discovered to be a better avenue for depositing 2D flakes on substrates due to the increased control over layer thickness parameters. 39 Consequently, the colloidal solutions containing both multi-layered and delaminated Ti (Fig.…”