MXene Synthesis Techniques and Their VOCs Sensing Applications

Accurate and sensitive environmental pollution detection is essential for addressing the health risks associated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from industrial activities, household products, and vehicles. However, achieving high selectivity and stability under diverse environmental conditions poses significant challenges. Consequently, there is a pressing need for innovative materials that can enhance gas-sensing performance. MXene, a class of two-dimensional transition metal carbides and nitrides, have emerged as promising candidates owing to their exceptional electrical, mechanical, and chemical properties. This review explores various synthesis techniques of MXene, including top-down and bottom-up approaches, highlighting the impact of these methods on the structural and functional properties of MXene. It also examines the combination of MXene with metal oxides to create nanocomposites, focusing on their enhanced performance in VOC sensing applications. The synergistic effect of MXene and metal oxides is analyzed, demonstrating improved sensitivity, selectivity, and response times in VOC detection. MXene-metal oxide nanocomposites use the large surface area, conductivity, and chemical reactivity of MXene, as well as the catalytic capabilities of metal oxides, to provide excellent sensing capability. This article discusses the improved performance of nanocomposites, their production progress, and recent advancements, while also reviewing challenges and providing insights for future research.