Cutting edge composite materials based on MXenes: Synthesis and electromagnetic interference shielding applications

MXenes, are an emerging class of 2D materials which have attracted growing interest among the scientific research community due to their unique properties, making them suitable for a wide variety of applications. Different transition metal-based MXenes have been investigated, being derived from the pristine MAX phase by selective etching of the "A" layer. MXene-based composite materials have shown great potential in electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and microwave (MW) absorption applications due to their conductivity, high specific surface area, highly active surface sites, and multi-layered structure. In this critical review article, we discuss the synthesis of 2D layered MXenes. We start by first introducing the MAX phase preparation, and the morphologies of different MXenes. We then examine the various approaches for MXene synthesis. The exfoliation and detachment of layers from bulk MXene into few layers, and the availability of functional groups in MXene materials are then discussed. We finish the review by covering the latest advances in 2D MXene-based composite materials for use in EMI shielding applications, also discussing the current challenges, new opportunities and prospects for MXene materials.