Integration of MXene and polymer: Unlocking the full potential of multifunctional composites for electromagnetic interference shielding

The traditional inflexible electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials have poor adaptability to wearable and portable flexible electronic devices due to their shortcomings such as brittleness and difficulty in machinability. As an optimized alternative, the conductive polymer composites (CPCs) constructed by integrating MXene and polymer have become one of the most promising EMI shielding materials. To cope with the more harsh application conditions, the processing-structure-property relationship of MXene/polymer EMI shielding composites urgently needs to be clarified. In this review, the EMI shielding mechanism and theory of CPCs are first outlined. Then, the recent advances in processing strategies for MXene/polymer EMI shielding composites with different structures are comprehensively summarized, including layered structure, segregated structure, and porous structure. Next, the multifunctionality of MXene/polymer EMI shielding composites in hydrophobicity, flame retardancy, thermal conductivity, infrared thermal camouflage, electrothermal conversion, photothermal conversion, and sensing function, is systematically introduced. Finally, the prospects and challenges for the future development and application of multifunctional MXene/polymer EMI shielding composites are discussed. This review aims to put forward effective guidance for fabricating intelligent, adaptable, and integrated MXene/polymer EMI shielding composites, thus promoting the upgrading of advanced MXene-based CPCs. (c) 2025 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of The editorial office of Journal of Materials Science & Technology.