Investigating the rheology of 2D titanium carbide (MXene) dispersions for colloidal processing: Progress and challenges

Among 2D materials, MXenes (especially their most studied member, titanium carbide) present a unique opportunity for application via colloidal processing, as they are electrically conductive and chemically active, whilst still being easily dispersed in water. And since the first systematic study of colloidal MXene rheology was published in 2018 (Rheological Characteristics of 2D Titanium Carbide (MXene) Dispersions: A Guide for Processing MXenes by Akuzum, et al.), numerous works have presented small amounts of rheological data which together contribute to a deeper understanding of the topic. This work reviews the published rheological data on all MXene-containing formulations, including liquid crystals, mixtures and non-aqueous colloids, which have been used in processes such as stamping, patterning, 2D and 3D printing. An empirical model of aqueous titanium carbide viscosity has been developed, and recommendations are made to help researchers more effectively present their data for future rheological analysis. Graphic abstract