Carboxymethyl Chitosan Synergistically Enhanced MXene Composite Aerogel for Piezoresistive Sensors and Thermal Management

MXene aerogels exhibit significant potential across various critical applications, especially in piezoresistive sensors and infrared shielding. However, the instability and tendency toward collapse of pure MXene aerogels present challenges in producing MXene aerogels with robust mechanical strength and stability. This work describes a method to enhance MXene synergistically with carboxymethyl chitosan (CCS) through freeze–thaw and freeze-drying, yielding a two-component composite aerogel. The MXene/CCS composite aerogels prepared using this method demonstrate outstanding mechanical properties and compressive strength (323 kPa), functioning as highly sensitive piezoresistive sensors (GF = 6.78) that swiftly respond to pressure variations. They are suitable for information transmission and adaptable for monitoring movements of body parts, such as wrists, fingers, elbows, and knees. Furthermore, these sensors exhibit excellent thermal insulation, ensuring uninterrupted signal transmission while protecting individuals from temperature-related harm. Additionally, this composite aerogel effectively shields infrared radiation, stabilizing temperatures despite surface temperature fluctuations and achieving strong stealth capabilities. This research offers a straightforward approach to fabricating multifunctional aerogels with substantial potential in piezoresistive sensors, thermal insulation, infrared shielding, and thermal management.