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MXenes, 2-dimensional (2D) layered materials, have been able to garner immense popularity among researchers and academia alike in recent times. MXenes are typically produced from the selective etching of "A" group metal layer using an etchant (usually HF) from the parent MAX phase structure where M represents a metal from early transition metals. Their unique surface chemistry and intriguing electrochemical behavior, combined with their high biocompatibility, make them ideal as a support matrix for the development of cutting-edge electrochemical energy storage, biomedicine, electrochemical sensing, and biosensing devices. Due to the surging demand for batteries that can enable recent technological advancements such as electric vehicles to reach their full potential, the high specific capacitance and outstanding electrochemical energy storage of MXenes are under extensive research in recent times. Ti-based MXene has shown tremendous potential and thus many excellent reviews appeared around it and other MXenes in general. However, there are not many specialized reviews for other types of MXenes. Herein, we reviewed the current research advances, challenges, and prospects of the three most popular MXenes: Niobium (Nb), Vanadium (V), and Molybdenum (Mo) based MXenes. The applications of each form of MXene have been divided into categories for the reader's convenience. Finally, we have highlighted the challenges and future perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing high-performing and scalable electrode materials for supercapacitors and batteries has been of tremendous interest for the world's forthcoming clean and renewable energy transition. As a versatile material, Two-dimensional graphitic carbon nitride (g-CN) has been utilized in electrochemical energy storage (EES) applications due to its nitrogen-rich adsorption sites, cost-effective production, and tunable electronic structure. The electrochemical performance of pristine g-CN has been boosted by forming hybrid architectures with highly conductive carbon-based materials, such as graphene, reduced graphene oxide, carbon nanofibers, carbon nanotubes, and beyond (e.g., MXene). Using such heterogeneous compositions for EES applications has significantly increased in recent years. This study reviews the g-CN/carbon nanomaterial (CNM) hybrids, considering the dimensionality in nanomaterials, and underscores the influence of the material's dimensionality and the synthesis/fabrication routes. The effect of structural and physicochemical changes on the electrode's electrochemical performance after hybridization is presented comparatively. Besides, the comprehensive review outlines challenges and future improvements in g-CN/CNM hybrid materials for outstanding developments in energy storage systems. [Display omitted] • Graphitic carbon nitride (g-CN)/carbon nanomaterial (CNM) hybrids are reviewed for supercapacitor and battery applications. • The impact of the CNM-type on the hybrid electrode's performance is examined through a chemical and physical perspective. • An overview of how hybrid electrode synthesis affects ion/electron transport, surface area, and porosity is provided. • Design-oriented control of the physicochemical properties for enhanced electrochemical performance is exemplified. • g-CN/CNM nanoarchitectures are emphasized as electrode materials with the potential for easy scalability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to synthesize highly reactive ZrO 2 nanoparticles using a straightforward sol-gel method for addressing water contamination from hazardous metal ions and organic dyes. Structural and photocatalytic properties were assessed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transmission Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and UV–visible absorption spectroscopy. XRD analysis confirmed the tetragonal crystal structure of ZrO 2. Photodegradation experiments using Eriochrome Black T (EBT) as a model dye revealed nearly 99% degradation under natural sunlight. Investigations into catalyst loading, dye concentration, pH, and irradiation source were conducted. Preliminary tests demonstrated the adsorbent's efficacy in removing Ca2+ ions. Further process optimizations could significantly enhance the potential of this innovative adsorbent for extracting metal ions from complex effluents. • Investigating the degradation of dyes in wastewater through photodegradation studies. • Tunning the morphology of nanocomposites to tackle difficult dye degradation scenarios. • Exploration of creating, analyzing, and potential uses of ZrO 2 nanoparticles. • Efficient elimination of heavy metal ion pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]