Engineering MXenes: Tunable Mechanical Properties and Applications in Structural Systems

MXenes are an emerging class of two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides with a unique combination of mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties. While MXenes have been extensively studied in electrochemical and materials science contexts, their mechanical behavior and engineering relevance remain comparatively underexplored. This paper provides a mechanically focused synthesis of MXene research, connecting structure, synthesis, processing, mechanical properties, and functional performance to engineering applications. Emphasis is placed on the tunability of tensile, elastic, shear, and thermomechanical properties through controlled variation of composition, surface terminations, and defects. Comparisons with graphene are used to clarify performance trade-offs and application-specific advantages. Key challenges, including environmental stability, moisture sensitivity, durability, scalability, cost, and integration with conventional engineering materials, are critically examined alongside current mitigation strategies. Applications in structural composites, mechanical reinforcement, energy storage, electromechanical systems, and MXene-based sensors and actuators are discussed to demonstrate practical relevance. By framing MXenes as engineerable materials rather than isolated nanomaterials, this work serves as a technical reference and entry point for mechanical engineers and interdisciplinary researchers seeking to design and deploy MXenes in advanced engineering systems.