Work

MXene-based photocatalysts for organic pollutant degradation: synthesis, functional properties, mechanisms, and kinetic insights

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: , self-assembly, and calcination routes. The structural diversity of MXene families and the physicochemical properties governing their photocatalytic performance, including synergistic composite interactions, photocatalytic properties, optical behavior, and biosafety, are critically discussed. Factors influencing degradation efficiency, including photocatalyst dosage, pollutant concentration, pH, and temperature, are systematically analyzed. The mechanistic pathways of pollutant mineralization and the kinetic behavior of MXene-based systems, both in the presence and absence of oxidants, are evaluated with reference to current literature. Unlike prior reviews that discuss MXenes in broader contexts, this work uniquely integrates mechanistic and kinetic analyses within a unified framework, providing targeted insights for the rational design of photocatalysts. This review concludes with future perspectives aimed at overcoming existing limitations and accelerating the practical deployment of MXene-based photocatalysts for water treatment applications.

Source: RSC Advances

DOI: 10.1039/d6ra08566k

Authors: Naveed Ahmad, Sheraz Ahmad, Salman Khan, Nolubabalo Matinise, Abdulkarim Alansari

Institutions: Northern Border University, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, University of South Africa

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Photocatalysis Techniques

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,042