Recyclable, UV-Blocking, and Radiative Cooling Multifunctional Composite Membranes

Abstract

It is well known that UV radiation can cause human health problems and that energy consumption can lead to human survival problems. Here, we prepared a composite membrane that can block UV radiation as well as reduce energy consumption. Carbon dots (CDs) and acrylates were prepared from xylose and epoxidized soybean oil as biomass feedstocks, respectively, and the composite membrane was prepared by a self-assembly strategy. The first layer of the membrane is composed of CDs and epoxy resin. Its main function is not only to weaken UV rays and the aggregation-induced quenching effect of CDs but also to reduce the absorption of UV rays by the second layer of the membrane. The second layer consists of barium sulfate (BaSO4) and acrylate. Compared to TiO2(3.2 eV), BaSO4(∼6 eV) has a higher electronic band gap, which reduces the absorption of UV light by the membrane. The composite membrane exhibits excellent UV-blocking and radiative cooling performance, shielding 99% of UV rays. In addition, the membrane can reduce 4.4 °C in radiative cooling tests, achieving a good cooling effect. Finally, the recyclability of the BaSO4/acrylate membrane is discussed, and 95% recovery rate provides sustainable utilization of the membrane. The composite membrane is expected to be popularized and used in low latitudes and areas with high temperature and high UV radiation near the equator.