Ti3C2Tx MXene modification using silicane or quaternary ammonium salt via covalent bonding or interaction for high‐performance composites

Abstract

AbstractTi3C2Tx MXene were modified by 3‐methacryloxypropyltrimethoxy silane (MPTS) and melamine quaternary ammonium salt (MG). The modification mechanism of MPTS and MG with Ti3C2Tx and the regulation of their surface and interfacial properties were confirmed through a series of tests. Ti3C2Tx@MPTS obtained by hydrolysis and hydroxyl co‐polycondensation had a hydrophobic surface and exhibits good dispersion stability. Ti3C2Tx@MG had a strong hydrophilic surface under the dual action of hydrogen bonding and electrostatic assembly, resulting in its surface charge changed from negative to positive. Furthermore, the morphologies of Ti3C2Tx@MPTS and Ti3C2Tx@MG were quite different. Compared with Ti3C2Tx MXene, Ti3C2Tx@MPTS still presents a multi‐layer structure, while Ti3C2Tx@MG shows a stripped‐off layer/single‐layer/partially collapse pattern. This is due to the fact that MPTS mainly modifies Ti3C2Tx MXene by coating, while MG is based on intercalation effect. The two modifiers modify Ti3C2Tx MXene with different effects, endow Ti3C2Tx MXene with different surface and interfacial properties, and then stabilize in the polymer matrix, supercapacitors and electrode materials in different ways.Highlights The hydrophilic and hydrophobic Ti3C2Tx is realized by MG and MPTS. Layered morphology of Ti3C2Tx was changed with the introduction of MPTS and MG. The electronegativity of Ti3C2Tx was changed by the introduction of MPTS and MG.