MXenes are large family of two-dimensional (2D) transition-metal carbides and nitrites. This class of materials currently includes about 30 distinct phases demonstrated experimentally, with at least 100 more compositions predicted computationally. The research on MXenes is experiencing exponential growth, with numerous reports pointing to the potential of MXenes for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, electrochemical energy storage, optoelectronics, sensors and catalysts. In contrast to other 2D materials, MXenes combine excellent electronic properties with nearly endless possibilities for covalent surface functionalization. In this regard, MXenes represent an ideal platform for fundamental and applied studies of interfaces in 2D functional materials.<br/>The comprehensive understanding of MXene surfaces introduces novel approaches for prescriptive engineering of physical and chemical properties of low-dimensional materials. Versatile chemical transformations of MXene surface functional groups open a previously unexplored design space for this broad class of functional materials. We discuss general strategies to install and remove surface groups by performing substitution and elimination reactions. Successful synthesis of MXenes with oxygen, imido, sulfur, chlorine, selenium, bromine, and tellurium surface terminations, bare MXenes (no surface termination), and hybrid organic-inorganic MXenes are demonstrated. MXene surface groups control biaxial lattice strain, phonon frequencies, electrochemical performance, the strength of electron-phonon coupling, making MXene surfaces not spectators but active contributors to conductivity, superconductivity and catalytic activity.

Surface science of MXenes

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ACS Fall 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.