Flexible superhydrophobic fabric with electromagnetic interference shielding based on MXene and cellulose nanofibers

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding fabrics have a wide range of applications for human and equipment protection. However, it is a challenge for single electromagnetic shielding textiles to apply in the harsh practical environments. Herein, superhydrophobic electromagnetic shielding polyester fabric obtained through combining the conductive network of MXene, the rough microstructure of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), and low surface energy polydimethylsiloxane modification. Its composition, morphology, water contact angle (WCA) and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) were characterized. MXene nanosheets grew on the fabric surface and formed a perfect conductive network between different fabric. The continuous MXene conductive network provided the basis for electronic transmission, endowing the prepared fabric with high EMI SE (~ 34 dB). Meanwhile, with the synergistic effect of micro-nano roughness and low surface energy modification, the treated fabric demonstrated remarkable superhydrophobic properties and showed a superior WCA (~ 164.3°). Furthermore, the treated polyester fabric demonstrated high electromagnetic interference shielding performance with excellent stability and durability. This work provided a feasible method for fabricating superhydrophobic electromagnetic shielding fabric, which will have wide application prospect in the fields of electromagnetic shielding, human body protection and military affairs.