Ultrasonic-assisted dealumination enhances the performance of Ti3C2Tx MXene as an anode in Li-ion Battery

Ti3C2Tx MXene has emerged as an exceptional candidate for use as an anode material in lithium-ion batteries (LIB) due to its unique structural and electrochemical properties. Nevertheless, its full potential is often not realized due to incomplete dealumination when synthesized using conventional etching. Therefore, this study proposes an innovative approach using ultrasonic-assisted dealumination to enhance the synthesis process. Based on the result, Ti3C2Tx processed through ultrasonic (U-Mxene) exhibited significantly higher charge-discharge capacities of 216-219 mA h/g and Columbic efficiency of 98.6%. The observed improvements are likely the result of the more efficient removal of alumina by HF from the parent Ti3AlC2 phase, facilitated by ultrasonic irradiation, which disrupts the solid structure more effectively than traditional methods. The implications of this synthesis approach extend to the practical deployment of Ti3C2Tx MXene in advanced LIB systems, paving the way for more efficient, durable, and higher-capacity energy storage solutions.