Oxidation engineering triggered peroxidase-like activity of VO(x)C for detection of dopamine and glutathione

MXenes, two-dimensional nanomaterials, are gaining traction in catalysis and biomedicine. Yet, their oxidation instability poses significant functional constraints. Gaining insight into this oxidation dynamic is pivotal for designing MXenes with tailored functionalities. Herein, we crafted VO(x)C nanosheets by oxidatively engineering V(4)C(3) MXene. Interestingly, while pristine V(4)C(3) displays pronounced antioxidant behavior, its derived VO(x)C showcases enhanced peroxidase-like activity, suggesting the crossover between antioxidant and pro-oxidant capability. The mixed valence states and balanced composition of V in VO(x)C drive the Fenton reaction through multiple pathways to continually generate hydroxyl radicals, which was proposed as the mechanism underlying the peroxidase-like activity. Furthermore, this unique activity rendered VO(x)C effective in dopamine and glutathione detection. These findings underscore the potential of modulating MXenes' oxidation state to elicit varied catalytic attributes, providing an avenue for the judicious design of MXenes and derivatives for bespoke applications.