Abstract The surface energies of MXene nanofillers critically affect the mechanical properties and durability of any polymer-based devices and composites to which these fillers are applied. In this context, this study comprehensively investigates Ti3C2Tz MXenes prepared via the hydrochloric acid/lithium fluoride etching of Ti3AlC2. The surface energy values of 10-layer MXene coatings were evaluated to be between 47.98 and 64.48 mJ/m2 as per contact-angle measurements. The wettability properties were found to depend on the number of coating layers and the liquids used. Additionally, the coating roughness was evaluated by using atomic force microscopy. The effectiveness of MXenes as a reinforcing nanofiller for polymer matrix was investigated by utilising an epoxy resin. The work of adhesion between the MXene and epoxy was calculated to be up to 123.6 mJ/m2. The prediction of a high adhesion was also confirmed with the use of scanning electron microscopy images to examine the fractured surface of the MXene–epoxy specimens.

中文翻译：

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MXene的润湿性及其与环氧树脂的界面附着力

摘要 MXene 纳米填料的表面能严重影响了应用这些填料的任何基于聚合物的器件和复合材料的机械性能和耐久性。在此背景下，本研究全面研究了通过 Ti3AlC2 的盐酸/氟化锂蚀刻制备的 Ti3C2Tz MXenes。根据接触角测量，10 层 MXene 涂层的表面能值被评估为介于 47.98 和 64.48 mJ/m2 之间。发现润湿性取决于涂层的数量和使用的液体。此外，通过使用原子力显微镜评估涂层粗糙度。通过利用环氧树脂研究了 MXenes 作为聚合物基体增强纳米填料的有效性。MXene 和环氧树脂之间的粘合功经计算高达 123。6 兆焦耳/平方米。使用扫描电子显微镜图像检查 MXene-环氧树脂样品的断裂表面也证实了高附着力的预测。