MXene-based fibers: preparation, applications, and prospects

With the vigorous development and huge demand for portable wearable devices, wearable electronics based on functional fibers continue to emerge in a wide range of energy storage, motion monitoring, disease prevention, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, etc. MXene, as an emerging two-dimensional inorganic compound, has shown great potential in functional fiber manufacturing and has attracted much research attention due to its own good mechanical properties, high electrical conductivity, excellent electrochemical properties and favorable processability. Herein, this paper reviews recent advances of MXene-based fibers. Speaking to MXene dispersions, the properties of MXene dispersions including dispersion stability, rheological properties and liquid crystalline properties are highlighted. The preparation techniques used to produce MXene-based fibers and application progress regarding MXene-based fibers into supercapacitors, sensors, EMI shielding and Joule heaters are summarized. Challenges and prospects surrounding the development of MXene-based fibers are proposed in future. This review aims to provide processing guidelines for MXene-based fiber manufacturing, thereby achieving more possibilities of MXene-based fibers in advanced applications with a view to injecting more vitality into the field of smart wearables.