MXenes are a class of two-dimensional (2D) nanostructured materials with the general formula M_n+1X_nT_x, where M is a transition metal, X is a carbon and/or nitrogen atom, and T is a functional group, such as O, F, OH, or Cl. MXenes have the capacity to be mixed with a variety of polymers, thereby imparting certain properties to the polymer. For instance, MXenes can enhance the barrier properties of plastics, suggesting a potential application as gas barrier films. Additionally, MXenes can improve flexibility, toughness, and tensile and compressive strengths. Furthermore, MXenes have been shown to possess antimicrobial and anti-fogging properties. These properties render them promising materials for use in food packaging.

The present study is focused on patent retrieval information regarding MXenes/polymer composites employed in the domain of food packaging.

A patent search was conducted on Espacenet, the EPO's free patent database, using precise keywords in the title, abstract, and claims search fields, as well as a set of classification codes, such as C08K 3/14 (use of carbides as compounding ingredients), C01B 32/921 (titanium carbide), and C08K 2201/011 (nanostructured additives).

After reading the full text of the patents/patent applications, we narrowed our initial 43 results down to 38.

Approximately 80% of patent priority filings were submitted in 2022. China is the most prolific country, with 34 results, but only one Chinese application was extended at the international level as a PCT application. The other four PCT applications derived from two EP applications, one U.S. provisional, and one application from the Czech Republic.

In most cases, Ti₃C₂T_x is claimed. However, in one patent application (CN115651245A), Ta₄C₃T_x is mixed with chitosan and N-hydroxyethyl acrylamide to create a chitosan-based film coating solution.

The most frequently used film matrixes are cellulose, chitosan, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyurethane.