Two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides/nitrides (MXenes) have shown promise for a range of applications due to their unique physical and chemical properties. The high electrical conductivity, 2D and layered structure, and rich surface chemistry of MXenes have sparked great interest in their properties as electrode materials for energy storage devices. MXenes are particularly of high interest because they can store charge in the bulk of the electrode through ultrafast intercalation of ions and fast and reversible redox reactions. To date, about 20 different MXenes with a general formula of Mn+1XnTx (M is a transition metal, X is carbon and/or nitrogen, n=1,2, and 3, and Tx represents different functional groups present at their surface) are synthesized by selective etching of the A layer atoms (i.e. Al) from MAX phases (e. g. Ti2AlC), a large group of layered ternary carbides and nitrides. However, similar to other 2D materials, the applications of MXenes in batteries and supercapacitors is dependent on their assembly into electrode structures with high electrical and ionic conductivities. The main focus of this talk is our group’s recent research on the assembly of MXene flakes into electrode structures with high energy and power densities. We have found that the electrochemical properties of MXene electrodes are highly dependent on the size of MXene flakes used in their fabrications. Controlling the flake size in the electrode structures leads to significant improvements in their specific capacitance and rate capability. Furthermore, our recent studies on the assembly of multilayer MXenes films and particles using electrostatic assembly methods will be discussed. The electrodes fabricated by these methods show superior chemical and electrochemical stabilities as well as energy storage capability. Finally, our work on 3D assembly of MXenes through a versatile 3D printing process will be presented.

2D MXenes as building blocks for assembly of high performance electrodes

2019 Fall National Meeting

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