Titanium carbide-based (Ti3C2) MXene@Zn-doped-S-polyaniline nanosheets: Toward thermo-mechanical and UV-shielding properties enhancement

Background: A number of different modifications of polymer matrixes, for various purposes in diverse fields, have been explored. Among them, demand for two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials utilization has gained an ascending trend. Recently, MXene nanosheets have drawn a huge amount of scientific community attention due to their particular characteristics. Methods: This study has aimed to fabricate a convenient nanofiller based on MXenes which is functionalized with sulfonated polyaniline and zinc ions (MXSP-Zn). Subsequently, it was introduced into an epoxy resin to elevate the mechanical performance. FTIR and Raman spectroscopy alongside field emission scanning electron microscopy of the fracture sides (FESEM), dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), colorimetry, tensile, contact angle, and Konig tests, before and after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, were conducted so as to determine the mechanical capacity of the EP-MXSP-Zn. Significant findings: The conclusive data, encompassing both visual observations and quantitative measurements, elucidates that our novel nanocomposite allows for the creation of a denser coating, effectively withstanding mechanical stresses. The cross-linking density and Young's modulus, in particular, affirm the superior performance of this nanocomposite when compared to the coatings based on neat epoxy or MXenes. Notably, under UV exposure, the coating derived from this nanocomposite exhibited the least amount of color fade. Consequently, the advantageous features of this composite are thoroughly validated.