Synergistic Ti3C2Tx MXene quantum dot/nanosheet Hybrid: Elevating supercapacitor performance

Supercapacitors are promising energy storage devices, offering a unique combination of high energy and power densities. This study systematically investigated the synergistic effect of a Ti3C2Tx-MXene quantum dot (MQD)/ nanosheet hybrid on supercapacitor performance. Ti3C2Tx MQDs are synthesized through a two-step process: first, Ti3C2Tx MXene 2D sheets are prepared via acidic etching of precursor materials. A combined hydrothermal (water-based) and solvothermal (ethanol-based) treatment at 150 degrees C reduces the sheet size, producing MQDs. The electrochemical performance of the MQD/nanosheet hybrid was evaluated via a three-electrode configuration with 1 M H2SO4 as the electrolyte. Galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD) tests at current densities ranging from 1 to 5 Ag-1 revealed a significant improvement in the specific capacitance under all tested conditions. Similarly, CV at scan rates of 10-200 mVs- 1 demonstrated an enhanced charge storage capability and superior rate performance, which was attributed to the synergistic effects of the MQDs. EIS confirmed the reduced chargetransfer resistance and excellent capacitive behavior across a wide frequency range. The enhancement in the results is due to the high surface area, remarkable electrical conductivity, and abundant electrochemically active sites of the MQDs. This study highlights the potential of Ti3C2Tx MQD/nanosheet hybrids as high-performance materials for next-generation supercapacitors, paving the way for their integration into advanced energy storage systems.