Super-Stretchable and High-Energy Micro-Pseudocapacitors Based on MXene Embedded Ag Nanoparticles

The advancement of aqueous micro-supercapacitors offers an enticing prospect for a broad spectrum of applications, spanning from wearable electronics to micro-robotics and sensors. Unfortunately, conventional micro-supercapacitors are characterized by low capacity and slopy voltage profiles, limiting their energy density capabilities. To enhance the performance of these devices, the use of 2D MXene-based compounds has recently been proposed. Apart from their capacitive contributions, these structures can be loaded with redox-active nanowires which increase their energy density and stabilize their operation voltage. However, introducing rigid nanowires into MXene films typically leads to a significant decline in their mechanical properties, particularly in terms of flexibility. To overcome this issue, super stretchable micro-pseudocapacitor electrodes composed of MXene nanosheets and in situ reconstructed Ag nanoparticles (Ag-NP-MXene) are herein demonstrated, delivering high energy density, stable operation voltage of ≈1 V, and fast charging capabilities. Careful experimental analysis and theoretical simulations of the charging mechanism of the Ag-NP-MXene electrodes reveal a dual nature charge storage mechanism involving ad(de)sorption of ions and conversion reaction of Ag nanoparticles. The superior mechanical properties of synthesized films obtained through in situ construction of Ag-NP-MXene structure show an ultra stretchability, allowing the devices to provide stable voltage and energy output even at 100% elongation.