Interfacial Electrochemical Self-Assembly Enables Mechanically Robust Infrared Stealth Coatings on Complex-Shaped...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Surface Engineering

Background:

• Transition metal carbides/carbonitrides (MXene) show potential for infrared stealth coatings due to low emissivity and high visible light absorption.
• Conventional coating methods struggle with complex geometries and specific substrate requirements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel fabrication method for MXene-based composite coatings.
• To overcome limitations of conventional coating techniques for geometrically complex surfaces.
• To create a multifunctional stealth coating with enhanced physical and operational properties.

Main Methods:

• Electrochemical ion-diffusion-induced gelation approach.
• Fabrication of MXene-based composite coatings (Fe²⁺ M/G).
• Characterization of mechanical strength, infrared emissivity, electrical conductivity, electromagnetic shielding, and Joule heating capabilities.

Main Results:

• Uniform deposition on arbitrary geometries achieved.
• High mechanical strength (198.31 MPa) and low infrared emissivity (0.19).
• Exceptional electrical conductivity (3571.4 S cm^-1) enabling electromagnetic shielding (49.35 dB) and rapid Joule heating (84 °C).

Conclusions:

• The electrochemical method provides a versatile route for fabricating advanced MXene stealth coatings.
• The developed Fe²⁺ M/G composite coating exhibits multifunctional properties for diverse applications.
• This work offers fundamental insights and practical solutions for next-generation stealth materials.