MXene initiated in situ construction of superhydrophobic and electrically conductive nanofibrous composites for wearable multifunctional sensing

Electrically conductive fiber or fabric composites (CFCs) combining superiorities such as light weight, flexibility and breathability show potential applications in wearable sensing electronics. However, it remains challenging to develop mechanically robust yet highly electrically conductive, biocompatible and sensitive CFCs that can be used in complex environment. Here, flexible Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs)/MXene/ polyurethane (PU) nanofibrous composites (SAMPCs) with a unique multiple core-shell structure are prepared by MXene initiated in-situ construction of superhydrophobic and electrically conductive network. SAMPCs show enhanced tensile strength and toughness while maintain large stretchability, and they also possess extremely high electrical conductivity (up to 3333.0 S/cm) with the corresponding electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness of 58.3 dB. In addition, SAMPCs exhibit biocompatible, antibacterial and hemostatic performance. When the nanofiber composites are used for strain and temperature sensing, the gauge factor and resistance temperature coefficient reach 917.1 and-0.735 %/degrees C, respectively. Particularly, SAMPCs strain sensor can work normally in underwater or even corrosive conditions. This study provides a new avenue to prepare multifunctional and smart fabrics for potential bioelectronics.