Recent progress in the antidegradation strategies of two-dimensional transition metal carbides (MXenes)

MXenes, a nascent category of two-dimensional materials, exhibit exceptional electrical and electrochemical properties when processed in aqueous environments, garnering significant attention for their potential in large-scale fabrication of advanced multifunctional devices. However, MXenes confront a critical challenge due to their susceptibility to rapid degradation in common environments containing water and/or oxygen, leading to compromised mechanical, physical, and chemical properties. Consequently, enhancing the stability of MXenes represents a practical and formidable endeavor for researchers in this field. A myriad of strategies have been explored to prolong the shelf life and enhance the performance stability of MXenes and their derivatives. Primarily, approaches involving the isolation or mitigation of MXenes' exposure to oxygen and water have demonstrated efficacy in preventing degradation. This article describes recent advancements in antidegradation strategies facilitated by alterations in storage conditions, surface treatments, and optimization of MXenes structures during synthesis. Furthermore, the degradation and antidegradation mechanisms are elucidated. This review presents updated strategies for improving the stability of MXenes, and discusses their prospects and enduring challenges.