Supramolecular structure@MXenes for photocatalytic applications – a review

Abstract

Recently, supramolecules have emerged as innovative and eco-friendly options for photocatalytic applications due to their tunable porous structures and photophysical properties. However, their low thermal stability and chemical stability pose a significant challenge. To address this, combining supramolecules with more stable materials like MXenes, which have a low Fermi energy level, is a useful strategy, in which they can form heterostructures that enhance stability and improve photocatalytic activity. The synthesis process, whether through in situ or post-synthesis modifications, plays a crucial role in controlling the formation of both covalent and non-covalent interactions, as well as the morphology of the heterostructures. These interactions and the resulting morphology significantly influence the recombination and separation of charge carriers (electron–hole pairs), ultimately affecting the stability and recyclability of the heterostructures in photocatalytic applications. In this review, we discuss the importance of supramolecule/MXene heterostructures, detailing their synthesis and morphology, as well as the mechanisms involved in various applications.