Ma Lao-like structural fireproof aramid nanofiber@Ag nanocomposite film enhanced with MXene for advanced thermal management applications

Here, inspired by the traditional Chinese cuisine Ma Lao, aramid nanofiber (ANF) decorated by silver nanoparticles (ANF@Ag) is prepared via in-situ depositing process of Ag ions on the surface of ANF based on dopamine chemistry reduction method. MXene/ANF@Ag nanocomposite films with various MXene concentrations are further prepared via a vacuum-assisted self-assembly strategy. ANF@Ag is designed as the organic-inorganic hybrid thermal conductive chains, while Ag nanoparticles not only play a role in heat transfer, but also catalyze the carbonization process and form massive inert gas during the combustion. Surprisingly revealing that toxic gases effectively catalyzing into friendly non-toxic carbon dioxide (CO2) and forming the CO2 molecular fire extinguisher-like effect, which are suitable for the development of ecological sustainability. The 5-MXene/ANF@Ag nanocomposite film shows excellent flame retardant properties, and the total heat release (THR) is only 0.1 kJg−1. Meanwhile, the high in-plane thermal conductivity of 5-MXene/ANF@Ag is 18.56 W·m−1·K−1, which is enhanced about 4.97 times higher than pure ANF film. It can be ascribed to the hydrogen bonding interactions and synergistic bridging effects from the MXene nanosheets and thermal conductive chains of rigid ANF@Ag. Therefore, this work displays a novel tactic to provide favorable interfacial interactions for the uninflammable thermal management materials. © 2022 Elsevier B.V.