Minimizing Intersheet Junction Resistivity via Au4Cu2 Nanocluster-Based Connectivity in Mo2TiC2 MXene for Symmetric Supercapacitor Device

Tehseen Nawaz, Muhammad Ahmad*, Iftikhar Hussain, Xi Chen, B. Moses Abraham, Shengli Zhuang, Kam Hung Low, Kaili Zhang*, Jian He*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

Abstract

MXenes with their intrinsic metallic conductivity and redox versatility have emerged as frontrunners in the search for advanced energy storage materials. However, their energy storage capabilities are often hindered by the limited accessibility of electrolytes to active sites and enhanced electrical resistance due to the susceptibility to layer restacking. To address these challenges, a novel, ultrasmall Au4Cu2 nanocluster, strategically embedded within Mo2TiC2 MXene layers, is introduced. This integration is facilitated through precise interfacial local interactions, which govern the regulation of interlayer electron flow. The Au4Cu2 nanocluster modifies the local electron density, promoting a gradient in electronic conductivity throughout the MXene layers and acting as a nanoscopic bridge that counters the tendency for restacking. This approach markedly enhances the charge transfer efficiency and, consequently, the charge storage capacity. The nanoclusters/MXene composite-based symmetric supercapacitor provides superior energy density and power density. The findings reveal a sophisticated interface engineering strategy for the prevention of interlayer restacking of MXenes that significantly elevates their ability to store charge. © 2025 The Author(s). Small Structures published by Wiley-VCH GmbH.
Original languageEnglish
Article number2400664
JournalSmall Structures
DOIs
Publication statusOnline published - 7 Apr 2025

Funding

The authors gratefully acknowledge The University of Hong Kong, the Research Grants Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People's Republic of China (RGC: 27301820 and 17313922), the Croucher Foundation, the Innovation and Technology Commission (HKSAR, China), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 22201236), and Donations for Research Projects_RMGS (project number 9229006) for their financial support.

Research Keywords

  • metal nanoclusters
  • Mo2TiC2
  • MXene
  • nanoscopic bridges
  • supercapacitors

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