Work

Emerging horizons of MXenes in wearable sensors for advanced health monitoring: an overview

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Wearable sensors are revolutionizing personal healthcare by enabling continuous, real-time monitoring of vital physiological signals, which supports early diagnosis, disease management, and improved quality of life. MXenes, a novel class of two-dimensional transition metal carbides and nitrides, have emerged as promising materials for next-generation wearable sensors due to their exceptional electrical conductivity, mechanical flexibility, hydrophilicity, and versatile surface chemistry. These unique properties enable high sensitivity, fast response, and robust multifunctionality necessary for detecting a wide range of physiological parameters, including pressure, strain, temperature, humidity, and biochemical markers. Recent breakthroughs in MXene-based wearable devices demonstrate their capability for multimodal sensing, self-powered operation, and seamless integration with flexible substrates. This review provides a comprehensive overview of structural and functional features of MXenes relevant to sensing devices. Despite significant progress, challenges such as biocompatibility, environmental stability, and scalable manufacturing remain critical. In future, advances in MXene composites, hybrid sensor platforms, and AI-driven data analytics hold great promise to drive MXene wearable sensors toward widespread clinical and commercial adoption for personalized healthcare.

Source: Frontiers in Sensors

DOI: 10.3389/fsens.2025.1704186

Authors: Katekani Shingange, Teboho Clement Mokhena

Institutions: University of the Witwatersrand, Mintek

Language: English

Topic: MXene and MAX Phase Materials

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,353