A review of the interfacial chemistry of Ti3C2 MXene-coordinated nanocomposites for photocatalytic green H2 evolution

Photocatalytic H2 production stands as a pivotal pathway toward sustainable energy generation, where Ti3C2 MXene materials have garnered significant attention owing to their distinctive structural attributes and exceptional photocatalytic performance. In this context, this review explores recent advancements in Ti3C2-coordinated nanocomposites, incorporating inorganic, organic, and polymeric materials, that have been designed to demonstrate enhanced photocatalytic efficiency for the H2 evolution reaction. First, we delve into the synthesis strategies employed to fabricate Ti3C2 nanocomposites, emphasizing the crucial role of various precursors and fabrication techniques in tailoring the morphological, structural, and electronic properties of the resulting materials. In the mainstream, we analyze the integration of inorganic/organic counterparts, including, metal oxides, metal sulfides and metal–organic frameworks, elucidating their contributions towards enhancing charge transfer kinetics, surface area, and stability of Ti3C2-coordinated nanocomposites. Additionally, we evaluate the utilization of polymeric matrices, such as g-C3N4, in facilitating electron transport and promoting interfacial interactions within the composite systems. We then provide an in-depth examination of the photocatalytic performance of Ti3C2 nanocomposites for H2 evolution, emphasizing key parameters such as H2 production rate, quantum efficiency, and long-term stability. Through a comprehensive analysis of experimental results and mechanistic insights, we elucidate the underlying principles governing the enhanced photocatalytic activity observed in these composite systems. Lastly, we discuss the remaining challenges and future prospects in the field, including the development of scalable synthesis methods, elucidation of reaction mechanisms, and integration of Ti3C2 nanocomposites into practical H2 production systems. Overall, this review illustrates the degree to which supporting materials impact the photocatalytic activity of Ti3C2 and provides valuable insights into the design, fabrication, and application of Ti3C2-coordinated nanocomposites for efficient and sustainable H2 production as part of high-performance renewable energy conversion systems.