Flexible and multifunctional carboxylic styrene butadiene rubber/CNT@PDA/MXene composites film for effective electromagnetic interference shielding, thermal management, and energy harvesting

Abstract

Considering the grave predicament of electromagnetic wave pollution and the intricate circumstances surrounding its application, it is crucial to consolidate multiple functionalities within a singular substance. However, significant challenges persist in effectively incorporating multifunctionality into engineered materials for electromagnetic shielding. Herein, we fabricated carboxylic styrene butadiene rubber (XSBR)/carbon nanotube modified by polydopamine (CNT@PDA)/MXene multifunctional composites film with outstanding overall performance. CNTs were modified with polydopamine to form CNT@PDA. MXene and CNT@PDA were assembled by hydrogen bonding interactions to form “Line-Plane”-like CNT@PDA/MXene. Introduction of PDA improved interfacial interaction between CNTs and MXene. The composite films demonstrated remarkable electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness of 58.5 dB. This can be ascribed to the collaborative effects of polarization relaxation, multiple internal reflection loss, and dielectric loss induced by the “Line-Plane”-like CNT@PDA/MXene heterostructure filler. Meanwhile, it also exhibited impressive Joule heating capabilities (reaching temperatures as high as 158.2 °C at 2.6 V), showcasing it immense potential in complex environments. Importantly, the stable open-circuit voltage of the single-electrode triboelectric nanogenerator assembled by the composite film can reach 74 V (PDMS, 2.5 × 2.5 cm², 8N). Therefore, this study not only proposes a technique for preparing “Line-Plane” heterostructure fillers but also outlines a method to construct multifunctional films that are suitable for electromagnetic shielding, aerospace engineering, and other harsh conditions.