White Photothermal Poly(tetrafluoroethylene-co-hexafluoropropylene-co-vinylidene fluoride)/Zirconium Carbide Porous Fiber Fabrics with Waterproof, Breathable, Acid and Alkali Resistant, Flame Retardant, and Ultraviolet Protective Properties

Abstract

Traditional methods for staying warm have a negative impact on outdoor work and result in substantial resource consumption. In contrast, photothermal conversion fiber fabrics utilize solar energy to regulate the temperature, providing a sustainable solution for warmth. Here, porous poly(tetrafluoroethylene-co-hexafluoropropylene-co-vinylidene fluoride) (THV)/zirconium carbide (ZrC) fiber fabrics were fabricated via a one-step electrospinning process based on water-vapor-induced phase separation using a binary solvent system of ethyl acetate and acetone. At a room temperature of approximately 5 °C, the THV/ZrC fiber fabric with a ZrC content of 0.5% can rapidly heat up to 52.3 °C within 30 s under 80 mW/cm² illumination. The excellent photothermal properties combined with superhydrophobicity endowed it with significant deicing capabilities. More importantly, the multifunctional properties, including self-cleaning, waterproofing, breathability, flame retardancy, acid and alkali resistance, and ultraviolet (UV) protection, made the fiber fabric safe and comfortable to wear. Additionally, its white appearance enhances its aesthetic appeal.