MXene for photocatalysis and photothermal conversion: Synthesis, physicochemical properties, and applications

Converting solar energy into a secondary energy source, via photo-thermal and photo-chemical approaches, is considered as a potential means to deal with energy problems at present. In photo-thermal and photo-chemical conversion, photocatalysis, photothermal catalysis, and evaporation play key roles via the light-matter interaction, while challenges remain due to the limited conversion efficiency. Recently, transition metal nitrides, carbonitrides, and carbides (MXene), a 2D material with excellent electronic, optical, elastic, thermoelectric, photothermal, and magnetic properties, which promise excellent light harvesting and charge separation as well as photothermal effect, have captured broad interest. In this review, recent advances of MXene in photocatalysis, photothermal catalysis, and evaporation are discussed based on introduction of the synthesis and unique physicochemical properties related to the solar energy conversion. More importantly, mechanism and constructing strategies of MXene-based photocatalysts, photothermal catalysts, and photothermal conversion materials are summarized. Moreover, a brief outlook on the current limitations and subsequent development of MXene-based photocatalysis and photothermal are provided. It is hoped that this review will afford in-depth insight and understanding toward solar energy conversion over MXene-based materials.