Ti3AlC2 MAX phase and Ti3C2TX MXene-based composites towards supercapacitor applications: A comprehensive review of synthesis, recent progress, and challenges

Abstract

The global need for energy is increasing due to the growth in population and the widespread use of energy-consuming devices. In recent times, supercapacitors have emerged as a better option owing to their high-power density, quick charging/discharging, and extended cycle life. A burgeoning 2D material that consists of carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides called MXenes, has emerged as a superior active electrode material for supercapacitors owing to its novel structure, stability, enhanced electrical conductivity, large surface area, hydrophilicity, hydrophobicity and availability of abundant active sites. In addition to their favorable attributes, MXenes exhibit certain limitations that have to be addressed like sheet restacking and aggregation, which impede the progress of research on various applications, especially supercapacitors. The major focus of this article pertains to the synthesis techniques employed for the Ti3AlC2 MAX phase, as well as the diverse methods of etching, intercalation, and delamination utilized for the preparation of Ti3C2TX MXenes. In addition, investigations conducted on the efficacy of utilizing Ti3C2TX MXene in combination with polymer, carbon, and transition metal oxide based materials to enhance supercapacitor performance are reviewed. This review includes important challenges and up-to-date studies along with an analysis of research gaps and future directions in supercapacitor applications.