Preparation and application of one-dimensional nanomaterials derived from titanium carbide

Abstract

Titanium carbide is defined as a kind of two-dimensional (2D) layered metal carbide. In previous research, 2D ultrathin titanium carbide nanosheets are susceptible to closely pack together, which reduces the specific surface area and active sites, further limiting the improvement of performance. In comparison, titanium carbide derived one-dimensional (1D) nanostructures have the larger aspect ratios, higher specific surface areas and more active sites, which can effectively avoid the tight stacking, further improving the ion conductivity, promoting the sufficient contacts between active materials and electrolytes, shortening response time, improving ion/electron transport and extending the cycle life. This article outlines the preparation and mechanism analysis of 1D nanomaterials derived from titanium carbide (including titanium carbide nanoribbons, titanate nanoribbons and titanium dioxide nanowires), and summarizes the applications of 1D nanomaterials in energy storage including sodium ion batteries, potassium ion batteries and supercapacitors, electrocatalysis and sensor. At the same time, the existing scientific issues are pointed out and the potential development directions of future research in this field are also prospected.