Multifaceted Nanocomposites Combining Phosphorylated PVA, MXene, and Cholesteric Liquid Crystal: Design and Application Insights

In this study, composite films based on phosphorylated polyvinyl alcohol (PVA-P), Ti₃C₂T_x MXene, and cholesteryl acetate (ChLC) were designed and characterized to explore their potential in flexible electronic applications. The incorporation of phosphate groups and ChLC enhanced intermolecular interactions, as confirmed with FTIR spectroscopy. Morphological and optical analyses revealed a transition from homogeneous to phase-separated structures with birefringent textures in ChLC-rich films. Thermal studies demonstrated improved stability and increased glass transition and melting temperatures, particularly in samples with higher ChLC content. Mechanical and dielectric evaluations highlighted the tunability of stiffness, flexibility, permittivity, and dielectric losses depending on MXene and ChLC ratios. These multifunctional films exhibit flame-retardant behavior and show promise for use in stimuli-responsive, sustainable electronic devices such as flexible displays and sensors.