Physics / mechanism
MXenes are a family of 2D transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides with the general formula M₍ₙ₊₁₎Xₙ (n = 1–3), where M is an early transition metal (Ti, Nb, Mo, V) and X is C or N. Synthesised by selective etching of MAX-phase precursors (HF or fluoride-free routes), the resulting flakes expose termination groups (–OH, –O, –F) that dominate surface chemistry and electronic behaviour. Ti₃C₂Tₓ is the benchmark: metallic conductivity ~10⁴–20,000 S/cm, high volumetric capacitance (~1500 F/cm³), electromagnetic shielding >70 dB at 45 µm thickness. Bandgap tuneable via composition and termination. Processable as aqueous inks, films, or freestanding foils. TRL ranges 3–7 depending on application vertical.
Competitive landscape
Compared to graphene: MXenes are hydrophilic, easier to process at scale, intrinsically conductive without doping, but oxidise in ambient air over weeks—lifetime management is an unresolved manufacturing cost. Versus MoS₂/TMDs: MXenes lack a natural bandgap but outperform on conductivity. Versus conductive polymers: higher thermal stability, better RF shielding. Competing ESD/EMI materials include carbon-fibre composites and silver nanowire meshes—both cheaper today but heavier or less processable.
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Frontier (open questions)
- To be added.