Dual-Function Detoxifying Nanofabrics against Nerve Agent and Blistering Agent Simulants

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Protective Materials

Background:

• Developing materials to neutralize multiple chemical warfare agents (CWAs) simultaneously is critical for real-world protection.
• Existing catalysts for CWAs lack effective integration onto practical fibers/fabrics for broad-spectrum defense.
• Need for advanced protective textiles against coexisting nerve and blistering agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create integrated nanofiber membranes for simultaneous detoxification of nerve and blistering agent simulants.
• To evaluate the efficacy of the composite material against dimethyl 4-nitrophenyl phosphate (DMNP) and 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES).
• To demonstrate the potential of these materials for broad-spectrum CWA protection.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of PAN@Zr(OH)₄@MOF-808 nanofiber membranes using electrospinning and in situ solvothermal reaction.
• Assessment of DMNP hydrolysis rates catalyzed by the MOF-808 component.
• Evaluation of CEES removal efficiency through adsorption and catalysis by MOF-808 and Zr(OH)₄.
• Testing the blocking effect and simultaneous protection capabilities against DMNP and CEES.

Main Results:

• Achieved rapid DMNP hydrolysis with a half-life of 1.19 minutes due to MOF-808 catalysis.
• Obtained an 89.3% CEES removal rate within 12 hours via MOF-808 and Zr(OH)₄.
• Demonstrated superior CEES blocking by PAN@Zr(OH)₄@MOF-808 compared to controls.
• Showed effective simultaneous inhibition of both DMNP and CEES for at least 2 hours.
• Exhibited excellent recycling stability due to strong interfacial adhesion.

Conclusions:

• The developed PAN@Zr(OH)₄@MOF-808 nanofiber membranes provide efficient simultaneous detoxification of nerve and blistering agent simulants.
• The composite nanofabrics demonstrate significant potential for broad-spectrum protective detoxification materials.
• This preparation strategy offers a novel approach for constructing advanced protective textiles.