MXenes: Synthesis strategies and lithium-sulfur battery applications

Abstract

Since their discovery in 2011, the two-dimensional transition-metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides known as MXenes have attracted considerable attention due to their metallic conductivity, mechanical properties, and hydrophilicity, which are closely related to their rich surface terminations. As a result, numerous novel synthesis strategies have been explored and new MXenes have been developed. Some have been applied in the field of energy storage, typically lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs). This review summarizes recent advances in MXenes for LSBs. We first introduce the structural characterization of these materials, then provide detailed summaries of synthetic methods. Next, we give a comprehensive overview of research progress on MXenes for the cathodes, separators, and anodes in LSBs. Finally, we address challenges and offer perspectives on future directions for research. We hope this review will help researchers gain insight into multifunctional MXenes and their comprehensive applications in LSBs.

Keywords

• MXenes
• Lithium–sulfur batteries
• Cathodes
• Separators
• Anodes