Bioinspired and biomimetic MXene-based structures with fascinating properties: recent advances

Abstract

Scientists have always been inspired by nature to design complex nanostructures and architectures with special features and functions. Latest among these is the construction of bioinspired MXenes and MXene-based structures with unique features such as high flexibility, strong electrical conductivity, high stability/biocompatibility, lower toxicity, and special mechanical properties. There are important challenges ahead though, including the design of MXenes for single-purpose uses with high specificity and targeting properties or multi-purpose applications with special therapeutic and functional capabilities with improved toxicity and biosafety profile, environmental stability under diverse conditions, and industrialization/optimization of the production process. The use of suitable manufacturing techniques with ecofriendly features and retracting the deployment of toxic and harmful substances is one of the leading challenges in the production of MXenes or MXene-centered composites. Inspired by biological systems, MXene-based entities or MXenes can be created for use in functional devices with special therapeutic and diagnostic capabilities; novel methods with sustainable and environmentally benign attributes ought to be realized for materials with unique designs (well-designed heterostructures and organic–inorganic hybrid materials) and desirable functions. Herein, recent advances pertaining to bioinspired and biomimetic MXenes and MXene-centered structures are discussed, focusing on important outcomes and future directions.