Breathable graphene oxide/polyurethane layered membrane for chemical protective clothing

Chemical protective clothing is crucial for shielding operators from toxic and hazardous substances. However, the limited moisture permeability of these garments significantly affects worker comfort and functionality over long periods. In this study, we introduce a novel graphene oxide/polyurethane composite membrane with an innovative alternating layer structure and improved interlayer bonding, produced through a simple, scalable layer-by-layer assembly method. The outstanding L-GO/PU membrane offers robust chemical protection for up to 24 h against harmful agents like mustard gas and dichloromethane, while also showing excellent resistance to both acidic and alkaline solutions. With a moisture permeability of 3116 g m- 2 d-1, this membrane ensures optimal comfort during extended use. Additionally, it demonstrates remarkable resistance to swelling, maintaining its structural integrity for 27 days during prolonged immersion in water. The L-GO/PU composite stands out as an excellent choice for chemical protective gear, combining high toxicity resistance with superior moisture management capabilities.