MXene-decorated nanofiber film based on layer-by-layer assembly strategy for high-performance electromagnetic interference shielding.

[Display omitted] • This layer-by-layer assembly provides a facile strategy in fabricating MXene-coated composite film. • This work proves the huge advantages of nanostructured membranes and MXene to prepare shielding composite film. • The composite film shows excellent electrical conductivity of 71.91 S/cm. • The composite film possesses high EMI SE of 28.82 dB and SSE/t of 12422.41 dB cm2/g. • The composite film exhibits ultrathin, flexible and bending. With the increase of electromagnetic radiation pollution, there is an urgent need to develop lightweight, ultra-thin, and high electromagnetic shielding composite film to eliminate unwanted electromagnetic interference. Herein, based on the layer-by-layer assembly strategy, a simple solution dip coating method was used to achieve the combination of two-dimensional transition metal (MXene) and nanofiber film, thereby constructing a conductive composite film with a unique undulating structure. The silicon-containing hydrophobic layer imparted excellent hydrophobic properties to the composite film while maintained the stability of the sandwich structure. The contact angle (CA) of the composite film with ultra-thin thickness (29um) was 125.49° and the conductivity was as high as 71.91 S/cm. The hydrophobic treatment would not damage the flexibility and mechanical properties of the composite film. In particular, the average shielding effectiveness (SE) and SSE/t could as high as 28.82 dB and 12422.41 dB cm2g−1, due to the layered structure formed by the connection of countless MXene nanosheets is beneficial to promote multiple absorption and reflection. This layer-by-layer assembly strategy provides a facile route in fabricating light-weight, flexible and ultrathin composite film for high-performance electromagnetic shielding, which is of great significance for broadening the practical application of MXene-based conductive materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]