MXene/CNTs/Aramid Aerogels for Electromagnetic Interference Shielding and Joule Heating

It is a considerable challenge to develop a composite material with ultra-light and high electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding efficiency for the next generation of electronic equipment. MXenes have received extensive attention in composite aerogel EMI shielding due to their abundant surface groups and ultra-high conductivity. However, the poor mechanical properties make them difficult to apply on a large scale. Here, we demonstrate a simple method to construct ultra-light conductive Ti3C2Tx MXene/aramid nanofibers (ANFs)/carbon nanotubes (CNTs) aerogels with a “sandwich” structure. CNTs and MXene absorb and reflect electromagnetic waves, while ANF aerogel provides good mechanical strength. Our composite aerogels with an extra-high EMI shielding efficiency of up to 69.0 dB at the X-band, despite their thickness and density being only 2 mm and 0.0428 g/cm3, respectively. At the same time, the composite aerogel with a low 0.0488 W/(m·K) thermal conductivity shows extraordinary flame resistance, heat preservation, and insulation ability. Besides, MXene/ANFs/CNTs aerogel can reach 104 °C in 3 s under an 8 V voltage and shows long-term Joule heating stability. This work provides a forward-looking idea for building multifunctional EMI shielding materials. The obtained aerogels have potential applications in aerospace, portable electronic devices, and defense industries.