Construction of ‘wire-surface’ conductive networks on cotton fabric for electromagnetic interference shielding, personal thermal management and infrared thermal camouflage

Although textiles decorated with electroactive materials have gained significant development in the field of wearable electronics and portable devices, the main issue is how to better exploit the synergy between conductive media for multi-scenario applications. Herein, we constructed a conductive network of 1D CNTs and 2D gallic acid-modified MXene (MG) alternating assembly of ‘wire-surface’ structure on the cotton fabric surface for wearable multifunctional personal protection. The introduction of gallic acid extended the lateral dimensions of MXene nanosheets, and the presence of CNTs protected MXene from oxidation and improved the binding of nanosheets to cotton fabric, contributing to an enhancement of the conductivity of the assembled fabric. Meanwhile, the conductivity of the assembled fabric remains stable after cyclic bending (1000 cycles) and nature storage (60 days). The assembled fabric could achieve more than 35 dB of electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (X-band) and outstanding infrared thermal camouflage performance. Moreover, low-radiation, Joule and solar heating are integrated to respond to the heating needs of complex scenarios and to achieve efficient utilization of energy. Based on its simple and scalable fabrication process, along with durability and comfort, the assembled cotton is expected to be promising candidates for multifunctional personal protective fabric.