2D-MXene composite systems for effective photocatalytic degradation of pharmaceutical compounds

Abstract

The escalating incidence of chronic diseases and infections has driven an increase in the use of antibiotics, raising concerns regarding their disposal and presence in water sources. Antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) can arise in bacteria and other microorganisms when antibiotics are present in the water. Human, plant, and animal physiological processes may be negatively impacted by extended exposure to these substances. Since MXenes are effective photocatalysts and adsorption agents, they have garnered a lot of attention in the wastewater treatment industry. While employing MXene alone typically yields inadequate results, it is advantageous to combine MXene with other materials to generate derivatives or composites. This comprehensive review meticulously examines MXene composites with various materials to enhance their photocatalytic prowess, unveiling composite systems capable of achieving an exceptional degradation efficiency of up to 99%, as exemplified by the UiO-66/MXene composite and g-C₃N₄/Ti₃C₂ MXene/black phosphorus heterojunction. Additionally, this paper provides critical insights into the intrinsic characteristics, synthesis methodologies, and performance efficiencies for these composites, thereby serving as an invaluable resource for researchers and practitioners in the field.