Silane modified MXene/polybenzazole nanocomposite aerogels with exceptional surface hydrophobicity, flame retardance and thermal insulation

Lightweight, surface hydrophobic, flame retardant and thermal insulating aerogels are highly needed for energy conservation and fire safety application. Herein, we reported silane modified MXene and polybenzazole (F-MP) nanocomposite aerogels prepared by using sol-gel, freeze-dry and thermal treatment approaches. The silane molecules produced multiple interactions with 2D MXene sheet and 1D polybenzazole nano-fiber and thus effectively promoted the formation of interconnected network in the nanocomposite aerogel. The optimized FMP aerogel demonstrates low density (30-70 mg cm(-3)), good surface hydrophobicity (water contact angle of similar to 141 degrees) and stale mechanical robustness after strain = 50% compression. In addition, this aerogel exhibits a reliable flame resistance and structural stability even after 60 s flame attack. Meanwhile, the F-MP nanocomposite aerogel shows an excellent thermal insulating performance and structure stability when compared with the traditional polymer foam materials. This work provides an innovative strategy for creating hydrophobic, flame retardant and thermal insulating aerogel materials, holding great promise for extensive applications.

Automated summary

In this study, silane modified MXene and polybenzazole (F-MP) nanocomposite aerogels were prepared using sol-gel, freeze-dry, and thermal treatment methods. The nanocomposite aerogel showed low density, good surface hydrophobicity, flame retardancy, and thermal insulation performance. The optimized FMP aerogel exhibited low density, good surface hydrophobicity, and mechanical robustness. Additionally, it displayed reliable flame resistance and structural stability, and superior thermal insulation compared to traditional polymer foam materials. This work presents an innovative strategy for developing hydrophobic, flame retardant, and thermal insulating aerogel materials with promising applications.