Rapid synthesis of MXenes at room temperature

Abstract

Ti₃C₂, one of the most studied MXenes (M is an early transition metal, and X is either C or N), has attracted considerable attention due to their excellent electrical conductivity, hydrophilicity, and catalytic activity. To date, most MXenes are prepared from powders and chemical etching under conditions of either long duration (generally ≥8 h) or high temperature (generally ≥35°C). In this study, Ti₃C₂ with –F and –O/–OH terminal groups was successfully obtained by electrochemically etching porous Ti₃AlC₂ sheet electrodes in NH₄HF₂ solution at room temperature. The reaction mechanism and the effect of voltage were demonstrated. Electrochemical etching could induce subsequent over-etching to generate carbide-derived carbons.