Review of MXene/MOF composites as photocatalysts for pollutant degradation

Abstract

MXene (Ti₃C₂T_x), a family of two-dimensional transition metal nitrides, carbides, and carbonitrides, has made them attractive candidates for photocatalytic applications such as pollutant degradation due to their unique characteristics and diverse unsees in recent years. Ti₃C₂ shows robust stability under conditions of photocatalysis and is appropriate for enduring usage. In order to increase the photocatalytic performance of Ti₃C₂, it can be composited with other materials such as MOFs and eventually produce more electron-hole pairs to improve its photocatalytic performance and increase the percentage of the pollutant degradation process. Conversely, MOFs are gaining prominence as materials because of their extensive surface area and semiconducting properties. Therefore, the coupling of MXene and MOFs will be promising for the formation of composites with high efficiency for photocatalytic applications including pollutant degradation. Therefore, the primary aim of this study is to reveal the latest advancements in composites based on Ti₃C₂T_x for the degradation of organic pollutants. MOFs are capable of producing electron/hole pairs induced by light, which subsequently convey electrons to MXene via junctions for photoredox reactions. In this research, properties, morphology, synthesis and optical properties etc. of Ti₃C₂T_x and their composites are stated. Then, the photodegradation performance of MXene/MOF composite and the mechanisms that were reported for the process of degrading organic dyes through photocatalysis have been discussed. The results showed that MXene/MOF composite has a higher pollutant degradation percentage than MXene. Composite materials of MXene/MOF have demonstrated potential in the degradation of pollutants, attributed to their distinctive characteristics and combined impacts. The MXene element in the composite contributes to superior electrical conductivity and catalytic behavior, whereas the MOFs element is characterized by its extensive surface area and selective adsorption capabilities. Upon their combination, these substances are capable of efficiently eliminating a range of pollutants, including organic dyes, from water. In summary, composites of MXene/MOF exhibit significant promise for environmental cleanup applications, providing high effectiveness, durability, and reusability in processes of pollutant degradation.