Wettability of MXene and its interfacial adhesion with epoxy resin

The surface energies of MXene nanofillers critically affect the mechanical properties and durability of any polymer-based devices and composites to which these fillers are applied. In this context, this study comprehensively investigates Ti3C2Tz MXenes prepared via the hydrochloric acid/lithium fluoride etching of Ti3AlC2. The surface energy values of 10-layer MXene coatings were evaluated to be between 47.98 and 64.48 mJ/m2 as per contact-angle measurements. The wettability properties were found to depend on the number of coating layers and the liquids used. Additionally, the coating roughness was evaluated by using atomic force microscopy. The effectiveness of MXenes as a reinforcing nanofiller for polymer matrix was investigated by utilising an epoxy resin. The work of adhesion between the MXene and epoxy was calculated to be up to 123.6 mJ/m2. The prediction of a high adhesion was also confirmed with the use of scanning electron microscopy images to examine the fractured surface of the MXene–epoxy specimens.