MXene-modified NiFe₂O₄ composites on UHMWPE: Structural, optical, and photoluminescent properties

We employed a cost-effective solution dispersion method to fabricate NiFe₂O₄/Ti₃C₂ (MXene) composites in the form of rectangular strips on ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) substrates. We conducted comprehensive characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra (UV–DRS), Photoluminescence (PL), and Raman spectroscopy to elucidate the composites’ structural, morphological, vibrational, and optical properties. XRD confirmed the successful incorporation of Ti₃C₂ into the highly crystalline NiFe₂O₄, and FESEM images revealed homogeneous dispersion within the composite matrix. FTIR analysis showed the formation of strong metal–oxygen bonds, and UV–DRS revealed enhanced optical absorption and a reduced band gap from 1.76 to 1.55 eV due to the incorporation of Ti₃C₂, suggesting potential applications in photocatalytic and optoelectronics. PL studies revealed emission in the visible region spectrum (400–550 nm), with Ti₃C₂ contributing to intensified and sharper emission peaks via improved charge transfer and defect-state modulation. The composite exhibited superior luminescence efficiency and emitted blue-violet light, making it ideal for white light-emitting diode (WLED) applications. Enhanced color rendering (R9 = 79–81) and optimized Duv values underscore Ti₃C₂ role in improving optical performance by modulating oxygen vacancies and tuning band structures. This work highlights the potential of NiFe₂O₄/Ti₃C₂ composites as tunable, multifunctional materials for next-generation optoelectronic and photocatalytic devices.