One-Hour Ambient-Pressure-Dried, Scalable, Stretchable MXene/Polyurea Aerogel Enables Synergistic Defense Against High-Frequency Mechanical Shock and Electromagnetic Waves

Abstract

The rapid, energy-efficient, scalable preparation of high-strength, flexible, multifunctional nanostructured aerogels is highly desired yet challenging. Here, an ambient-pressure-dried (APD) strategy is developed involving self-foaming, dip-coating, and graphene oxide (GO)-assisted multiple cross-linking treatments for the prompt, large-area preparation of polyurea/transition metal carbides/nitrides (MXenes) aerogels. The APD MXene-based aerogels showcase low density, remarkable mechanical strength, and ultraflexiblity involving stretchability, good conductivity, hydrophobicity, and high resistance to various solvents. Synergies of robust, elastic cell walls and porous structure contribute to high-efficiency absorption of high-frequency, high-speed mechanical shock waves for the aerogels, significantly transcendinging the biomasses, plastics, elastomers, ceramics, and metals. In addition to the excellent microwave shielding performance of over 40 dB in ultrabroadband frequencies of 4–40 GHz, the oxidation stability is elevated for APD MXene aerogels, consequently yielding applicability in harsh conditions. Furthermore, the superior light absorption capability of aerogels leads to the efficient photothermal conversion, therapy, antibacterial, desalination, water purification, deicing, and thick oil absorption. This work provides a facile, time- and energy-efficient, scalable APD methodology for manufacturing large-area, high-strength, ultraflexible, multifunctional MXene-based aerogels, enlighting a novel synergistic defense against mechanical shock and electromagnetic waves, and promoting them as a prospective candidate in aerospace, device protection, and next-generation electronics.