MXene-based sodium–sulfur batteries: synthesis, applications and perspectives

Sodium–sulfur (Na–S) batteries are considered as a promising successor to the next-generation of high-capacity, low-cost and environmentally friendly sulfur-based battery systems. However, Na–S batteries still suffer from the “shuttle effect” and sluggish ion transport kinetics due to the dissolution of sodium polysulfides and poor conductivity of sulfur. MXenes, as 2D transition metal carbides/nitrides, have exhibited excellent conductivity, diverse structure and tunable surface groups, particularly playing a crucial role in inhibiting polysulfide shuttle and sodium dendrite growth. In this review, achievements and advancements of MXene-based Na–S batteries are discussed, including applications of a sulfur cathode, separator, interlayer between separator and cathode, and sodium anode. In the end, perspectives and challenges on the future development of MXene-based materials in Na–S batteries are proposed.