Activated Carbon/MOF Nanomembrane Composites Fabricated Through the Electrospinning Process for Protection Against Chemical Warfare Agents

The severe threat posed by chemical warfare agents (CWAs) to human health and safety emphasizes the urgent need for advanced protective and decontamination research. Activated carbon (AC), known for its high surface area, has proven effective in CWAs adsorption. Similarly, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), particularly UIO-66-NH2, have demonstrated promising decontamination capabilities due to their chemical stability and high reactivity toward toxic compounds.
In this study, we fabricated a novel nanomembrane composite using polyacrylonitrile (PAN), activated carbon, and UIO-66-NH2 in optimized ratios through an electrospinning process. By adjusting extraction parameters, we achieved a nanomembrane composite with maximized active sites due to the superior surface area of both activated carbon and MOF, thereby enhancing the adsorption capacity for CWAs. Additionally, the amine (-NH2) groups of the MOF contributed to improved decomposition efficiency for decontaminants. The composite material was thoroughly analyzed through BET analysis, SWATCH testing, time-based CWA droplet decontamination trials, as well as air permeability and aerosol filtration tests. These additional analyses allowed us to evaluate the nanomembrane composite’s breathability and assess its filtration efficiency for harmful airborne particles.
The findings from this research reaffirm the necessity for effective protective strategies against CWAs, highlighting the potential for lightweight nanomembranes to reduce weight fatigue in exposure scenarios while enhancing protection, ultimately contributing to reduced casualties.