MXene-based wearable supercapacitors and their transformative impact on healthcare

Abstract

MXenes have contributed enormously to the development of wearable supercapacitors because of their high surface area, high electrical conductivity, flexibility, hydrophilicity, and good mechanical strength. Such supercapacitors are flexible, lightweight, and can be integrated into textiles, making them ideal for wearable electronics. Various MXene-based composites are introduced with multifunctionality and enhanced conductivity as sensors with wearability and stretchability. However, the design of MXene-based electrodes for wearable supercapacitors still encounters challenges in terms of capacitance, cycling stability, difficulties in synthesis, mechanical flexibility, and integration with other materials. In this context, studies have focused on strategies of deploying composite materials, hybrid approaches, surface modifications, optimization processes, and structural design improvements. Several techniques are introduced to create MXene-based materials with varied deformation capabilities, high capacitance, good cycling stability, and improved mechanical flexibility for wearable supercapacitors. However, some limitations have been circumvented affecting the performance and safety of wearable supercapacitors namely the restacking issues that can reduce their surface area and charge storage capacity, as well as narrow the operating potential range, synthesis challenges, and possible allergenic reactions/toxicity. Wearable technology has emerged as a promising field with applications ranging from fitness tracking to remote monitoring of patients. One key requirement for these devices is a reliable source of power that is both flexible and efficient. MXene-based wearable supercapacitors have shown great potential in the realm of biomedical wearable devices and healthcare monitoring. This perspective article aims to shed light on the significant biomedical applications of MXene-based wearable supercapacitors and their transformative impact on healthcare. In addition, recent developments pertaining to the engagement of MXenes and their composites in designing wearable supercapacitors are deliberated, concluding with the associated main challenges and future directions.