Superflexible hybrid aerogel-based fabrics enable broadband electromagnetic wave management

Abstract

As problematic interference from electromagnetic waves (EMWs) in modern human life continues to increase, broadband EMW management aerogels have received extensive attention in the safety and thermal management fields, but the mismatch in terms of their mechanical flexibility and functionality has limited their application. This work reports an ultra-lightweight (8.7 mg cm−3), superflexible, hyperelastic (≥95% strain), and superhydrophobic (contact angle: 157°) wearable hybrid aerogel-based fabric that offers both electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and infrared (IR) shielding functions. A nanotape-enabled multi-crosslinked hybridization strategy, in which freeze-drying-initiated hydrophobic -Si-O-Si- nanotape welds weak bacterial nanocellulose-silver nanowire interfaces perfectly, gives the fabric outstanding mechanical properties. Optimized synergy gain engineering between the metal and the semiconductor (antimony tin oxide nanoparticles) produces significant enhancements in the electrical conductivity (502.46 S m−1), the EMI shielding effectiveness (SE, 100 dB), and the IR shielding performance (ultralow thermal conductivity of 0.025 W m−1 K−1) of the fabric. The hybrid aerogel-based fabric is fabricated into broadband EMW management clothing, which has excellent prospects for safety and thermal management applications.