Designing a MXene-based heterostructure nanocomposite with extensive interfacing as ions exchange and controllable release inhibitors for intelligent coating

In this work, the surface of I–Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene was modified by (MgAl-)LDH via coprecipitation followed by the introduction of BTA, forming the novel I–Ti 3 C 2 T x @LDH/BTA (ITLB) heterostructure nanocomposites . ITLB acted as a pH-responsive nanocontainer to release benzotriazole (BTA) and adsorbed/captured Cl − ions by ion exchange. ITLB could be systematically arranged within an epoxy matrix , enhancing interface interaction and improving mechanical properties. The ITLB/EP coating exhibited excellent corrosion protection and self-healing performance. The impedance value of the intact ITLB/EP coating was 10 11 Ω cm 2 , which was three orders of magnitude higher than that of EP, and presented the highest R c and R ct values compared to other coatings throughout the immersion period. When defects in the ITLB/EP coating, ITLB underwent a rapid pH-response to localized corrosion to release BTA, forming a dense protective [BTA-Fe-BTA] n complex with Fe 2+ and effectively preventing further corrosion. Thus, ITLB exhibited dual functionality as a nanocomposite corrosion inhibitor , providing both pH-response behavior and intelligent protection. This newly created 2D/2D heterostructure nanocomposite will provide the theoretical basis and technical support for the development of intelligent coatings. • A novel I–Ti 3 C 2 T x @LDH/BTA (ITLB) heterostructure nanocomposite was prepared by coprecipitation . • ITBL was systematically arranged with the epoxy matrix, enhancing interface interaction and improving mechanical properties. • ITLB was a multifunctional corrosion inhibitor with pH-responsive, adsorption of Cl-ions, and intelligent protection.