Facile and rapid synthesis of core-shell structured MXene@Ag@PA hybrids for enhanced fire safety and radiation cross-linking in EVA/MH composites

In this study, MXene@Ag@PA hybrids were synthesized using radiation methods and chelation, aiming to enhance the key properties of EVA/MH composites, particularly their flame retardancy. The test results demonstrated that the addition of MXene@Ag@PA hybrids effectively reduced the amount of heat and smoke released during the combustion process of EVA composites. When 2 parts of MXene@Ag@PA hybrids were added, the peak heat release rate (pHRR) of the EVA/MH/2.0MXene@Ag@PA composite was reduced to 233 kW/m², representing a decrease of 78.5% and 63.3% compared to pure EVA and EVA/MH composites, respectively. Additionally, the time to reach the peak heat release rate was delayed to 300–400 s. Moreover, the MXene@Ag@PA hybrids further reduced the total smoke production (TSP) of the EVA composites to 3 m², which is 50% and 38.7% lower than that of pure EVA and EVA/MH composites, respectively. Besides providing significant flame-retardant enhancement to EVA/MH composites, the MXene@Ag@PA hybrids also acted as a radiation sensitizer. At an irradiation dose of 100 kGy, the addition of MXene@Ag@PA hybrids enhanced the cross-linking effect of EVA composites, thereby strengthening their mechanical properties.