Recent Advancements of MXene/Nanocellulose-Based Hydrogel and Aerogel: A Review

MXenes have been highly attractive to researchers owing to their layered nanostructure, excellent electrical conductivity, and abundance of functional groups. Meanwhile, nanocellulose materials, known for their biodegradability, renewability, compatibility with living organisms, and cost-effectiveness, have emerged as a popular choice for material selection researchers. Recent research has discovered that combining nanocellulose with MXenes can improve the mechanical properties of MXenes, resulting in composite materials with remarkable electrical and mechanical properties. This article provides an overview of the three main types of nanocellulose: cellulose nanofiber, cellulose nanocrystal, and bacterial cellulose. It also discusses various synthesis methods for MXenes, including MXene/nanocellulose-based hydrogel and aerogel. Additionally, the article highlights the multiple uses of MXene/nanocellulose composites in different fields, including flexible sensing materials, electromagnetic shielding, energy storage structures, and wearable health monitoring. This review covers distinctive characteristics and unique MXene/nanocellulose composite behaviors, their recent advancements in MXene/nanocellulose synthesis, and applications. Moving forward, the potential for these materials to be used innovatively with anticipation of taking the MXene/nanocellulose-based research further steps across the respective scientific community. Nanocellulose is found in three primary forms: cellulose nanofiber, cellulose nanocrystal, and bacterial cellulose. The synthesis of MXenes, a group of 2D transition metal carbides/nitrides, encompasses various methods, including developing MXene/nanocellulose-based hydrogels and aerogels. These composite materials demonstrate versatility in applications such as flexible sensing, electromagnetic shielding, energy storage, and wearable health monitoring, propelled by their unique characteristics.image (c) 2023 WILEY-VCH GmbH