Design and characterization of 2D MXene-based electrode with high-rate capability

MXenes, two-dimensional transition metal carbides and nitrides, are promising materials for electrochemical energy storage application due to their redox-active surface and flexible interlayer space. Among all reported MXene-based electrodes, some have shown significantly better high-rate energy storage capabilities. Hence, it is crucial to have a systematic understanding on the decisive factors of the rate capability in the MXene family. This article discusses the impact of material properties at three levels, including intralayer composition, interlayer space and morphology, on the charge transfer and ion transport, revealing all the possible rate-limiting factors of MXene-based electrodes. We also describe systematic methods to characterize MXene electrodes as a detailed fundamental understanding of the structural and chemical properties, and the charge storage mechanisms crucial for rationally designing MXene-based electrodes. Graphic abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]