Unlocking assembly chemistry of MXenes spanning diverse dimensions via ionic modification

Transition metal carbides, nitrides, or carbonitrides, known as MXenes, are a fast-growing family of 2D materials, exhibiting a unique set of properties including excellent electrical conductivity, surface redox activity, and tunable interlayer spacing. A range of applications, such as energy storage, water treatment, and electrocatalysis, have been manifested by MXenes.

However,  how to bring nanosheets into macroscopic assemblies with tailor-made architecture and function toward specific applications remains an open question. This is also critical to fully exploit the potential of these fascinating 2D materials.

This project can provide brand new knowledge and solutions to such challenges via the synthesis of modified MXenes bearing ionic units and developing innovative assembly strategies based on these modified ionic 2D nanosheets.

Various assemblies spanning multiple dimensions, ranging from liquid-like MXenes, 1D fibers, 2D membranes to 3D hydrogels/aerogels will be prepared by leveraging interface chemistry and judicious assembly strategies.

Practical applications related to water treatment and energy storage will be investigated by prototypes of nanofiltration membranes and supercapacitor devices.This project will last for four years at Stockholm University, and three WPs are included.

The targets of this project are serving as novel materials and methodology platforms of MXenes and providing practical solutions toward prevailing energy and environmental issues.