The electrowetting-on-dielectric and photothermal performance of the porous Ti3C2@PVDF composite and dehumidification application

Abstract

The work environment of EWOD devices is becoming increasingly complex, and achieving high-efficiency dehumidification remains a significant challenge for their reuse. In this study, Mxene Ti₃C₂ nanosheets were prepared, embedded into PVDF, and immersed in DMF for approximately 20 seconds, resulting in the formation of porous Ti₃C₂@PVDF composites. The initial water contact angle (CA) reaches approximately 145.9º. The uniform dispersion of Ti₃C₂ nanosheets at an optimal mass fraction of 3 wt% in PVDF increases the dielectric constant nearly fourfold through space charge polarization, thereby enhancing EWOD performance. Specifically, the CA modulation reaches nearly 116.5º, and the relaxation time decreases from 0.756 seconds to 0.487 seconds. Additionally, the Ti₃C₂@PVDF composite exhibited excellent photothermal properties. Combining these properties with superior EWOD responses, the Ti₃C₂@PVDF composite was successfully applied to achieve highly efficient dehumidification in Ti₃C₂@PVDF-based EWOD devices.