Constructing 3D heterogeneous flower-like spherical MoS2/CNTs composites with worm-like surface as a superior electromagnetic wave absorber

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) heterogeneous flower-like spherical MoS2/CNTs composites with worm-like interfaces were successfully fabricated by a simplified solvothermal reaction to achieve superb electromagnetic wave absorption (EWA) properties. The microstructure characteristics, morphology features, EWA performance and associated mechanism of as-prepared specimen were systematically analyzed. The incorporation of MoS2 resulted in the establishment of a 3D conductive network and a substantial augmentation of the heterogeneous interfaces between MoS2 and carbon nanotubes (CNTs), thereby inducing an amplified conductance loss and polarization loss, respectively. Moreover, the fabrication of 3D architecture not only enhances the structural robustness of the composites, but also broadens the avenue for electromagnetic wave (EW) reflection and scattering, thus augmenting the absorption of EW energy. As a result of the synergistic effect of augmented attenuation capability as well as optimized impedance matching, the EWA performance of materials was outstanding, with a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −52.1 dB and an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 1.93 GHz achieved at a thin thickness of 2.46 mm in the X band. This research will serve as a meaningful point of reference for exploring 3D flower-like spherical structure of EW absorber.