Mixed metallic framework-derived carbon nanotubes integrated into a carbide MXene-based network for hybrid capacitors in real time application

Metallic carbon nanotubes derived from metal–organic frameworks retain superior electrical conductivity owing to the graphitization of carbon during pyrolysis. Transition metal particles (e.g., Co, Mn) serve as catalysts for the synthesis of well-aligned and highly conductive carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The incorporation of metal nanoparticles from the MOF precursors into the CNT structure generates highly active catalytic sites. High electrical conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and the presence of functional groups on the surface provide tunable chemical and physical properties, facilitating their application in various fields. Simply combining MXene with manganese and cobalt oxide flakes and annealing in a reducing atmosphere produces flexible and freestanding (a thin sheet type) MXene/bimetallic MOF-based modified films. Bimetallic (Mn and Co) carbon nanotubes in TiC MXene boost pseudocapacitive reaction after annealing eliminates terminal groups (-F/-OH). The hierarchical and interconnected network produced by the bimetallic approach inhibits MXene from self-restacking and increases charge transport and shortens ion and electron transport routes for superior electrochemical features. The Swagelok cell-based device was employed to validate the electrochemical performance of the supercapacitor. MC-PC-TiC₃ exhibited an outstanding specific capacitance of 1171 F/g at a scan rate of 5 mV/s, along with excellent rate capability and enhanced mass loading in electrode fabrication. Moreover, the optimized electrode comprising a trimetallic and porous carbon-based network has demonstrated the synergistic benefits of the individual MXene and MOF. This research introduces unique energy storage devices utilizing bimetallic metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and MXene materials.