Since their discovery in 2011, MXenes have been extensively applied across many fields due to their high specific surface area, high electrical conductivity, lightweight, and adjustable bandgap. MXenes are distinct from other two-dimensional (2D) layered materials because their unique synthesis inevitably introduces surface-terminated groups, which have a significant impact on their physical and chemical properties. Recently, by modifying the surface terminal groups, researchers have greatly expanded the applications of MXene materials. This paper introduces the various types of MXene materials and delves into the mechanisms for the generation of terminal groups during the preparation process. Then, it comprehensively analyzes how these functionalized terminal groups significantly affect the performance of MXene materials in different application scenarios and summarizes their potential and advantages in practical applications. This review provides valuable insights into the importance of surface terminal groups in unlocking the full potential of MXene materials for future technological innovations.

Dual-mode temperature–pressure sensors hold significant promise for personal health monitoring, wearable devices, and robotic signal detection. However, conventional designs that integrate two separate sensors complicate the fabrication process. This work presents a dual-mode temperature‒pressure sensor based on a core‒shell carbon fiber (CF)‒silver sulfide (Ag₂S) film fabricated via facile electrodeposition (ED). The sensor employs its thermoelectric (TE) mechanism for self-powered temperature sensing, enabling accurate detection of finger touches and respiratory states, and exhibits the rapid response time of 0.7 s. For pressure sensing, its shell-to-shell contact ensures the ultrafast response time of 0.2 s, facilitating the precise monitoring of body movements. In addition to its sensing functionalities, the sensor demonstrated the superior electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding efficiency of 50 dB (a twofold improvement), the tensile strength (TS) of 59 MPa (10× enhancement), and an antibacterial effectiveness of over 95%. These properties make it an excellent candidate for self-powered electronic sensor systems, paving the way for health monitoring, wearable technology, and artificial intelligence.

Thermoelectric (TE) technologies offer a promising approach for directly converting skin heat into electricity for wearable electronics. Recognizing p-type Sb₂Te₃ and n-type Bi₂Te₃ as top-performing materials at room temperature, their rigid inorganic structure, with ultralow moisture permeability, poses challenges in warm and humid conditions, fostering bacterial growth and potential skin issues. To address this issue, we developed a cross-linked core−shell structure by electrodepositing Sb₂Te₃ (Bi₂Te₃) onto carbon fiber (CF). This architecture significantly improved the electrical conductivity and the Seebeck coefficient, resulting in a remarkable 300-fold increase in the power factor compared to that of pure CF. The CF/Sb₂Te₃ and CF/Bi₂Te₃ films demonstrated optimal power factors of 450 and 121 μW∙m⁻¹∙K⁻², respectively. Moreover, the fabricated films exhibited outstanding moisture permeability, over 3000 g∙m⁻²∙d⁻¹, exceptional electromagnetic interference shielding efficiency approaching 93 dB, and versatility as sensors for language assistance and respiratory monitoring. These attributes underline their broad applicability, emphasizing their suitability for human health protection in diverse scenarios.