Recent advances in synthesis and properties of zirconium-based MXenes for application in rechargeable batteries

Advancement in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology has envisaged the development of novel materials for a better human life. Nanomaterials have attracted the scientific research for the past three decades and are widely explored for multifunctional applications. Research is ongoing to understand the properties of various emerging nanomaterials such as MXenes, MBenes, transition metal dichalcogenides, black phosphorous, and so forth to name a few. Among the various layered two-dimensional (2D) materials, transition metal carbides/nitrides/carbonitrides (collectively known as MXenes) have received profound interest due to their exciting physical and chemical properties. Among the MXene family, titanium-based MXenes have been explored the most. But the research on non-titanium-based MXenes are still in the developing stage. Zirconium (Zr)-based MXenes are the emerging materials having peculiar characteristics. Herein, we discuss the syntheses, properties, and application of Zr-based MXenes. Initially, the MAX phases of Zr-based MXenes are discussed. Further, the synthesis of Zr-based MXenes by various methods are included. Furthermore, the applications of Zr-based MXenes in rechargeable batteries such as lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, potassium-ion batteries, and so forth are reviewed.