Gel-nacre nanocomposite: Integrating mechanical, conductive, and photothermal advantages synergistically under saline conditions

• Published in: Composite structures 2023-09, Vol.319, p.117134, Article 117134
• Main Authors: Mei Chen, Yong, Dian Dong, Dian, Zhang, Ning, Yang Wang, Zi, Yang, Yang, He, Yuan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Conductivity; Gel-nacre; Mechanical performances; Nanocomposite; Photothermal conversion
• ISSN: 0263-8223
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2023.117134

Hydrogel nanocomposites have been enthusiastically researched as promising candidates with cost-effectiveness and sustainability for solar steam generation and flexible electronics. Based on conductivity derived from salt ions and  superior photo-vapor conversion of photothermal nanoparticles, hydrogel nanocomposites hold great potentials for ionotronics and desalination. Here, we report a mechanically robust and multifunctional gel-nacre nanocomposite based on carbon black (CB) nanoparticles strategically embedded in gel-nacre matrix, a physical crosslinked hydrogel reinforced via freeze–thaw and salting out with microphase separation structures. The CB nanoparticles play double roles of acting as nano-crosslinks and providing photothermal conversion capability, coupling gel-nacre matrix with shrinking tendency in saline, contributing to synergistical reinforcement of mechanical performances under saline conditions. The consequent CB@gel-nacre nanocomposite achieves comprehensive mechanical advantages (large strength, high toughness, ductility, and rapid self-recoverability), excellent electrical properties (good conductivity, high sensitivity, fast strain response) as well as photothermal conversion capability. Such versatile gel-nacre nanocomposite provides new opportunities for flexible devices in various scenarios such as ionotronics and desalination.