Engineering MXene/metal composites from MAX phase/metal–Al precursors for high-performance energy conversion and storage

Abstract

Two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides, MXenes, have garnered significant interest for their potential applications in various energy storage and conversion systems. This work presents a novel approach to synthesizing MXene/metal composites via direct etching of MAX phase/metal–Al alloy precursor materials. By combining the Ti₃AlC₂ MAX phase with metal alloys and optimizing the processing conditions, we demonstrate a scalable method for producing MXene/metal composites with a 3D porous architecture and good mechanical integrity. Electrochemical tests have revealed that these composites exhibit high electrochemical activity toward the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and possess substantial areal capacitance, making them promising candidates for energy storage applications. Additionally, this synthesis strategy is adaptable to other MAX phases and metal–Al alloys, enabling the fabrication of customizable MXene/metal composites with tailored nanostructures for a broad range of electrochemical applications.