Properties of two-dimensional Ti3C2 MXene/thermoplastic polyurethane nanocomposites with effective reinforcement via melt blending

Abstract

Realizing a homogeneous distribution of two-dimensional nanosheets in polymer matrix, avoiding their agglomeration, has been a key scientific challenge in fabricating high-performance polymer nanocomposites. Herein, we report a simple and eco-friendly strategy for preparing thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites with homogeneously dispersed Ti3C2 MXene nanosheets. In this method, MXene is first pretreated with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and then subjected to melt blending with TPU. These processes effectively exfoliate MXene nanosheets, which are then well dispersed inside the TPU matrix. The MXene/TPU nanocomposites show mechanical and thermal properties that are superior to those of pristine TPU. Tensile strength and storage modulus increase by 47.1% and 39.8% at MXene loading values of 0.5 wt%. The onset degradation temperature of the nanocomposites increases by 13.1 °C, whereas the maximum degradation temperature increases by 20.3 °C at 0.5 wt% MXene loading. This study may provide a promising strategy for manufacturing MXene-based polymer nanocomposites with effective reinforced properties at the industrial level.