The project successfully developed chemical synthesis routes for producing hybrid 2D nanomaterials that combine MXenes, graphene, and molybdenum disulfide. These materials were synthesised reproducibly as fine powders and systematically characterised to confirm their structure, composition, and stability using advanced analytical techniques.
A major technical achievement was the demonstration that these hybrid nanomaterials can be formulated into stable inks using both water-based and organic solvents. The ink preparation strategy allowed controlled adjustment of concentration and dispersion, which is essential for future printing on flexible substrates. Initial experiments were carried out to assess ink–substrate interactions, providing early insights into compatibility with flexible surfaces.
The project also achieved significant progress in understanding the structural, chemical, and optical properties of the hybrid materials, establishing a solid scientific foundation for their integration into functional devices. Although full device fabrication was not completed within the project timeframe, the work delivered validated materials, ink formulations, and substrate compatibility knowledge that enable continuation toward printed energy-storage devices.
In addition to the scientific work, the project placed strong emphasis on open science and responsible research practices, with research data and methods managed according to FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable).
The PHyS-2D-GraM project advanced through structured work packages (WPs), focusing on synthesis, characterization, ink formulation, device fabrication, and non-research training objectives.
WP1: Synthesis of Hybrid 2D Nanocomposites and Inks
High-quality 2D MXene-Graphene-TMD nanocomposites, including few-layered Ti3C2Tx, Ti3C2Tx-MoS2 heterostructures, Ti3C2Tx-Graphene, and Ti3C2Tx-Graphene-MoS2 double heterostructures, were synthesized via one-pot chemical methods with reproducible high yields. Versatile organic and aqueous inks were formulated using a solvent-transfer strategy, enabling tunable concentrations across solvents like NMP, isopropanol, DMF, water, and ethanol.
WP2: Structural, Electrical, and Rheological Studies
Comprehensive characterization confirmed structural integrity via XRD, SEM-EDX, Raman, XPS, UV-Vis-NIR, and photoluminescence, revealing metallic MXene behavior, MoS2 excitonic features, and interfacial coupling in heterostructures. These validated compositional uniformity and optoelectronic properties, though full rheological optimization remains partly achieved.
WP3: Fabrication of Printable Micro-Supercapacitors
Not initiated due to time constraints; preliminary substrate wettability tests with inks identified challenges in multilayer adhesion and porosity control.
WP4: Project Management
FAIR data principles were fully integrated, enhancing scope management, SOPs, risk assessment, and procurement for efficient project delivery.
WP5: Training and Career Development
Leadership skills advanced through UCC Postdoc Hub programs (e.g. project management, entrepreneurship) and initiatives like SPRINT Accelerator for telehealth wearable prototypes.
WP6: Dissemination and Exploitation
Results disseminated via Graphene Week presentations, Cork Science Festival outreach, and planned high-impact publications; exploitation targets TRL 3-4 via open datasets and industry prototypes.
