Antibacterial properties of MXene-based nanomaterials: A review

Abstract

MXenes are new two-dimensional (2D) nanoscale materials with strong hydrophobicity, flexibility, and remarkable mechanical strength. MXenes have attracted attention in a wide range of applications due to their unique electrical properties, magnetic properties, and catalytic properties, and ability to form diverse nanocomposites with a variety of materials including carbon nanotubes (CNTs), metal oxides, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), and organic polymers. MXene-based nanomaterials have demonstrated great potential in antibacterial processes owing to their excellent electrochemical performance, high surface area, and remarkable hydrophilicity. MXene nanomaterials are incredibly effective against a wide variety of bacteria and have undergone extensive research because of their strong bactericidal activities. In this paper, we review all types of MXenes, their different synthesis methods and then summarize the recent advances on antibacterial applications of MXenes under various conditions and bacterial load. This review intends to provide valuable insight and inspiration for the further development of effective and safe MXene-based nanomaterials with antibacterial properties.