Wrinkled MXene-engineered core–sheath phase change fabric with multisource energy charging and storage for multi-scenario, deformation-adaptive wearable thermal management

Developing phase-change fabrics for multi-source energy harvesting is crucial for personal thermal management, yet modulus mismatch between elastic matrices and rigid fillers still causes functional failure under deformation. Herein, a deformation-adaptive, hierarchically structured phase change fabric is engineered via coaxial electrospinning followed by pre-strain–assisted MXene deposition. This design robustly encapsulates a paraffin wax (PW) core within a polyurethane (PU) sheath to prevent leakage, while the wrinkled MXene architecture mechanically decouples the rigid conductive network from the stretchable substrate. This geometry accommodates tensile strain through geometric unfolding, preserving a substantial latent heat of 105.0 J/g alongside excellent gas permeability. Consequently, the fabric exhibits deformation-insensitive thermal performance, maintaining saturation temperatures of 42.3 °C (100% strain, 50 mW/cm² irradiation) and 41.7 °C (90% strain, 2 V). Simulations further highlight its robust reliability in cold environments (−4 °C), a 238 s photothermal charge sustains comfort for 2960 s, while a mere 120 s electrothermal input extends protection for over 2864 s. Even under 150% tensile strain, the electrothermal mode maintains skin temperature around 30 °C after ≈ 2800 s. By synergizing mechanical robustness, breathability, and reversible energy storage, this work presents a versatile structural strategy for multi-scenario wearable thermal management.