Optimization of reaction parameters for preparation of MXene-based polymer nanocomposites

The present study reports on the preparation of nanocomposites consisting of polyurethane (PU) as the matrix and Ti
3
C
2
T
x
MXene as the nanofiller, utilizing an in-situ polymerization method. The synthesis parameters of polyurethane remained constant, while the method of adding and preparing MXene was varied. The MXene content was maintained at 1 wt.% for all prepared nanocomposites, and the soft segment content was held constant as well. For the characterization of our materials, FTIR, SEM, TGA and tensile tests were employed. Also, the properties of the prepared nanocomposites were compared to pure PU. FTIR spectra confirmed the formation of urethane bonds. SEM images demonstrated the dispersion state of MXene in the polymer matrix. TGA revealed higher thermal stability of the prepared nanocomposites compared to pure PU. Moreover, the Young’s modulus and tensile strength increased for all prepared nanocomposites.