Volume: 5, 2026
5th International PhD Students’ Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland:
ENVIRONMENT – PLANT – ANIMAL – PRODUCT
Abstract number: A043
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL5.A043
Published online: 22 April 2026
Green transition in MXene fabrication: alternative etching chemistries to replace or reduce HF
Joanna Półrolniczak*1,2, Diana Marcano1, Mateusz Marczewski1 and Jarosław Jakubowicz2
1 Łukasiewicz Research Network – Poznań Institute of Technology, 6 Ewaryst Estkowski St., 61-755 Poznan, Poland
2 Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, 24 Jan Paweł II St., 61-138 Poznan, Poland
* Corresponding author: joanna.polrolniczak@pit.lukasiewicz.gov.pl
MXenes are a rapidly expanding family of two‑dimensional transition metal carbides and nitrides that have attracted significant attention as advanced functional materials due to their high surface reactivity and tunable surface chemistry. These properties enable a wide range of applications, while simultaneously placing strong emphasis on the environmental footprint of their synthesis. MXenes are typically produced by selective wet chemical etching of the A‑layer from MAX phases, resulting in surface‑functionalised materials whose properties are closely linked to the applied fabrication route. As interest in MXenes continues to grow across multiple research fields, their synthesis has increasingly extended beyond specialised laboratories focused on process optimisation.
At present, the most widely adopted etching approach relies on concentrated hydrofluoric acid, primarily due to its effectiveness and simplicity. However, this practice raises serious concerns related to human health, environmental safety, and waste management, particularly when considered in the context of process scalability and broader dissemination of MXene fabrication protocols. In response to these challenges, this work addresses the green transition in MXene fabrication by exploring wet chemical etching strategies based on less hazardous reagents and reduced hydrofluoric acid usage. The proposed process‑oriented approach follows the principles of Safe‑and‑Sustainable‑by‑Design, aiming to minimise environmental impact while preserving the functional characteristics of MXenes. Given the growing scientific interest in MXenes and their potential future use in industrial applications, the development of safer and more environmentally responsible production routes is essential for sustainable semi‑industrial and industrial implementation.
The work was partially funded by the Ministry of Education under the program “Industrial Doctorate 2022-2026” (agreement no. DWD/6/0170/2022) at Poznan University of Technology. The work was partially funded by the Horizon Europe program, through the project “SAFARI – Safe and sustainable by design graphene/MXenes hybrids”.
Keywords: MXenes; environmentally friendly synthesis; hydrofluoric acid reduction
How to cite
Półrolniczak J., Marcano D., Marczewski M., Jakubowicz J., 2026. Green transition in MXene fabrication: alternative etching chemistries to replace or reduce HF. In: 5th International PhD Students’ Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland: Environment – Plant – Animal – Product. https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL5.A043