MXene/zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) composites: A perspective on their emerging applications

MXene/zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) composites represent a rapidly growing area of research in the field of energy storage, catalysis, sensing, flexible electronics, microwave/electromagnetic wave absorption, biomedicine, and environmental remediation/water treatment. The integration of MXene and ZIFs in composite materials has led to develop highly sensitive and selective (bio)sensing platforms, enabling advances in biomedicine/healthcare, environmental monitoring, and industrial safety. MXene/ZIF composites showcase exceptional catalytic activity for a wide range of chemical transformations. Their exceptional adsorption capacity, selectivity, membrane integration, regeneration capabilities, and antibacterial properties make them invaluable assets in tackling water treatment challenges. The combination of MXene's conductivity and ZIF's dielectric properties, along with their unique morphological features, results in enhanced microwave absorption capabilities. Furthermore, while the biomedical applications of MXene/ZIF composites are still in the early stages of exploration, the combination of their unique properties provides a platform for innovative solutions in drug delivery, cancer nanotheranostics, bioimaging, tissue engineering, and biosensing. This article aims to present a comprehensive overview of the research progress in MXene/ZIF composites, focusing on current trends, important challenges, and future perspectives.