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Efficient nanomaterials are in high demand in photocatalytic applications to maximize solar energy conversion to renewable fuels. There is growing research on the use of metals as cocatalysts to promote photocatalyst efficiency, but they are expensive. Recently, titanium carbide (Ti3C2Tx) MXenes as layered materials have attracted attention to investigate energy conversion applications. The distinguishing characteristics of Ti3C2Tx are higher specific surface area, tunable terminal functional groups (−OH, −O, and −F), exposed metallic active sites, and excellent electrical conductivity. MXenes can be combined with other semiconductors as cocatalysts to improve charge carrier separation. This review discusses various synthesis routes to fabricate Ti3C2Tx MXenes as single materials, their surface functionalization, and as cocatalysts to construct a heterojunction for photocatalytic CO2 conversion and H2 production. The different synthesis approaches, such as the HF, halogen, alkali, molten salt, and electrochemical etching routes, to regulate structure, morphology, and efficiency are systematically described. Moreover, synthesis of various morphologies of Ti3C2Tx MXenes in terms of dimensions, sizes, and their effect on the performance of energy conversion reactions are systematically discussed. Furthermore, various synthesis routes with regard to fabrication of Ti3C2Tx MXene-based nanocomposites for stimulating photocatalytic efficiency with solar energy is elaborated on. The critical analysis and discussion is included on select suitable structures and morphologies of MXenes as cocatalysts and as a support to stimulate the energy harvesting efficiency. Finally, a discussion related to challenges and further developments for exploring pathways in the contexts of synthesis and production of promising renewable fuels is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the bioactive potential of Rhus alata , a plant known for its rich phytochemicals. A previously unreported compound was isolated from R. alata and characterized using various spectroscopic techniques (IR, UV, NMR, MS) and confirmed for the first time by X-ray crystallography. In isolated compound 1, noncovalent interactions between H···H/H···H, C···C/C···C and O···H/H···O play a major role in its packing arrangement. This observation is consistent with the results of Hirshfeld surface analysis, which quantified these interactions as 14.2%, 84.6%, and 1.2%, respectively. The isolated compound was identified as lantabetulic acid ( 1 ) (3β,25-expoxy-3α-hydroxylup-20(29)-en-28-oic acid). To understand its potential biological interactions, the binding affinity of lantabetulic acid to biomolecules such as bovine serum albumin (BSA), and human serum albumin (HSA), was assessed. The results showed significant binding efficacy, indicating potential interactions with these molecules. Furthermore, the DPPH assay demonstrated the potent antioxidant activity of this compound. We used in silico molecular docking to clarify the binding affinity between lantabetulic acid and a particular receptor. Furthermore, molecular dynamic simulation studies also explored the binding interaction. As well, MM/GBSA calculations corroborate the simulation results and the stability of the complex. Docking and dynamics studies revealed promising binding scores, suggesting further investigation into their potential therapeutic applications. Geometric parameters and the absorption spectrum of compound 1 were also determined using the DFT approach and compared with experimental findings., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing financial interest., (© 2024 The Authors. Published by American Chemical Society.)