MXene-based sensors for detecting human physiological information

Abstract

The requirements of healthcare monitoring and diagnosis are dramatically increasing owing to the rapid development of society and the economy and high technology. In recent years, advanced materials such as two-dimensional (2D) materials have been utilized in various fields, including energy storage, catalysis, electronics, and sensors. Their outstanding capabilities, such as high stretchability and easy fabrication, facilitate their use as alternative materials for sensing. The MXenes synthesized through a process of strong acid etching are a new family of 2D transition metal carbides and nitrides with high sensitivity and biocompatibility, making them advantageous over traditional 2D materials for sensors to detect human physiological information. This review presents the recent progress and challenges in using MXene-based sensors to detect human physiological information, including physical signal and chemical signal detection. The monitoring of body motion and temperature as physical signals is described, while cancer biomarkers and small molecules of the body are regarded as chemical signals. In addition, this review provides a new perspective on design to inspire the application of MXene-based sensors for seniors. The challenges and outlook of MXene-based healthcare sensing techniques are briefly summarized at the end of the paper.