Silane modified MXene/polybenzazole nanocomposite aerogels with exceptional surface hydrophobicity, flame retardance and thermal insulation

Lightweight, surface hydrophobic, flame retardant and thermal insulating aerogels are highly needed for energy conservation and fire safety application. Herein, we reported silane modified MXene and polybenzazole (F-MP) nanocomposite aerogels prepared by using sol-gel, freeze-dry and thermal treatment approaches. The silane molecules produced multiple interactions with 2D MXene sheet and 1D polybenzazole nano-fiber and thus effectively promoted the formation of interconnected network in the nanocomposite aerogel. The optimized F-MP aerogel demonstrates low density (30–70 mg cm−3), good surface hydrophobicity (water contact angle of ∼141°) and stale mechanical robustness after strain = 50% compression. In addition, this aerogel exhibits a reliable flame resistance and structural stability even after 60 s flame attack. Meanwhile, the F-MP nanocomposite aerogel shows an excellent thermal insulating performance and structure stability when compared with the traditional polymer foam materials. This work provides an innovative strategy for creating hydrophobic, flame retardant and thermal insulating aerogel materials, holding great promise for extensive applications.