Status and prospects of MXene-based nanoelectronic devices

MXenes, two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides and nitrides, are being increasingly explored for electronics. In contrast to other 2D materials experiencing profound exploration in nanoelectronics, research pertaining to MXene-based nanoscale electronic devices is in its early stage of development. However, the large compositional variety and tunable surface groups of MXenes provide a great platform to design novel integrated devices at the micro- and nanoscale. We believe that MXene-based nanoelectronics, as an emerging sub-branch of 2D electronics, is on the cusp of important discoveries and transformative developments in the field of solid-state physics and emerging devices. Herein, we review the current development in the field of nanoscale MXetronics, including the whole process flow from MXene synthesis, property tuning, thin-film preparation, microscale or nanoscale patterning, and on-chip device fabrication. Approaches to optimize every step of the MXene device fabrication protocols are discussed. We further identify key research directions essential for the successful future development of MXetronics.

Automated summary

MXenes, 2D transition metal carbides and nitrides, have great potential in nanoelectronics. Although research on MXene-based nanoscale electronic devices is still in its early stage, the diverse composition and tunable surface groups of MXenes provide a promising platform for designing novel integrated devices. The emerging sub-branch of 2D electronics, MXene-based nanoelectronics, is expected to bring important discoveries and transformative developments in solid-state physics and emerging devices. This review summarizes the current development in nanoscale MXetronics, including MXene synthesis, property tuning, thin-film preparation, microscale or nanoscale patterning, and on-chip device fabrication, and discusses approaches to optimize MXene device fabrication protocols. Key research directions for the successful future development of MXetronics are also identified.