Fabrication of 1T-MoS2/Phenolic Photothermal Film for Broad-Spectrum Light-Shading Application with Low Reflectivity and High Imaging Clarity

Solar-control window film is an effective solution for reducing indoor cooling energy consumption. In this study, a modified 1T-phase molybdenum disulfide (M1T-MoS2)/phenolic resin composite film with low reflectivity, high imaging clarity and broadband optical blocking performance was developed. To enhance the dispersion of 1T-phase MoS2 nanosheets within the resin matrix, surface functionalization was achieved using trimethoxysilylpropanethiol (TOPE), exploiting the strong chemical affinity between thiol groups and sulfur vacancies. Furthermore, in situ curing of the phenolic resin facilitated dehydration condensation between silanol groups on the modified nanosheets and hydroxymethyl groups of the resin, resulting in the nanosheets being firmly anchored within the polymer network. The improved dispersion of the metallic-like M1T-MoS2 nanosheets allows the M1T-MoS2/phenolic resin film, with a thickness of only 40 μm and a filler content of 1.75 wt %, to achieve a light shading efficiency exceeding 85% for visible and near-infrared light below 1500 nm. Additionally, the film demonstrates high imaging clarity and a low visible-light reflectance of approximately 7%, contributing to the reduction of glare and light pollution caused by excessive reflection from window films. Experimental photothermal efficiency tests and finite element analysis demonstrated that the film’s high light-shading performance was primarily due to its strong optical absorption rather than reflection. This study presents an effective approach for fabricating broadband solar control window films and provides a strategy to enhance the stability of 1T-phase MoS2 in practical applications. These findings contribute to expanding the applications of 1T-MoS2 in composite materials and energy-related fields.