Multifunctional Hydrogels with Broadband Electromagnetic Interference Shielding and Infrared Stealth Performance in...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Stretchable conductive hydrogels are crucial for aerospace, military, and soft robotics.
• Achieving stable, efficient performance with low filler content under harsh conditions is challenging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop flexible, multifunctional hydrogels with enhanced environmental stability and performance.
• To investigate the synergistic effects of MXene and (NH4)2SO4 for improved properties.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of double network hydrogels using MXene/(NH4)2SO4-treated strategy.
• Ultrasonic dispersion and thermal polymerization techniques were employed.
• Characterization of mechanical, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, and sensing properties.

Main Results:

• A 3-fold increase in mechanical properties, a 20-dB improvement in EMI shielding, and a 40% enhancement in gauge factor were achieved with only 0.12 wt% filler.
• The hydrogels exhibited stable EMI shielding and infrared stealth under stretching, dehydration, freezing, heating, and flame exposure.
• Synergistic effects of MXene and (NH4)2SO4 significantly boosted performance and stability.

Conclusions:

• The developed hydrogels offer ultra-low filler efficiency, environmental robustness, and multifunctional adaptability.
• These materials show promise for next-generation aerospace, military, and wearable electronic applications.
• The study presents a viable strategy for creating high-performance, stable conductive hydrogels.