Novel 2D MBenes-synthesis, structure, properties with excellent performance in energy conversion and storage: A review

Abstract

Since the last century, the abundance of MXenes, two-dimensional (2D) transition-metallic carbides/nitrides isolated from multilayer MAX states, has gained considerable attention in the research of 2D transitional metallic borides. Researchers originally described a novel class of 2D transition metallic borides as MXene precursors in 2017 and gave these the fast moniker MBenes. MBenes have garnered significant attention in the fields of nanotechnology, physical science, and chemistry during the last five years. MBenes have a potential prospect, because they possess numerous appealing features and are being extensively explored for energy conservation and electrocatalysis purposes. However, the research study of MBene is still in its initial phases, presenting numerous predicted characteristics and impacts that have yet to be examined. Similarly, the computational predictions and primary experimental efforts reveal the extensive chemistry, exceptional reactions, substantial mechanical properties, high electrical conductance, transitional features, and potential for energy capturing of these materials. MBenes have a higher range of structural complexity in comparison to MXenes, since they possess various crystallography configurations, polymorphism, and undergo structural transitions. These characteristics complicate the process of synthesizing and separating them into single flakes. This review initially provides a comprehensive overview of MBenes, describing them as a collection of 2D transition metallic borides, that have sandwich-like structures formed from multilayer MAB phases. Next, we discussed the advancement of synthesis techniques, characteristics, distinctive properties, morphology, and potential applications of MBenes for energy conservation and electrocatalysis processes. The continuous challenges with performing experimental synthesis and making computational predictions were thoroughly discussed, along with the potential and future possibilities of MBenes.