In
this work, a three-dimensional (3D) flexible copper coated melamine
sponge (Cu-MES) with superhydrophobic properties capable of active
heating and infrared insulation is fabricated via deposition of copper
nanoparticles on the MES surfaces for personal thermal management
applications. The results showed that the Cu nanoparticles were tightly
anchored on the surface of the melamine sponge, forming a low infrared
emissivity coating, resulting in high thermal insulation properties
of the multifunctional Cu-MES. The promising electrical conductivity
grants the superior Joule heating for extra warmth of 40 °C using
a low supply voltage around 7 V. Besides, obtained Cu-MES material
shows a self-cleaning property with a stable water contact angle of
157.5° and a sliding angle of 15°. These promising results
including low infrared emissivity for high thermal insulation and
high conductivity for heat collection make the Cu-MES promising candidates
for applications in personal thermal management, energy regulation,
and other facilities.
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