Flexible electromagnetic wave absorption material: Multiscale synergistic approach to achieve whole X-band absorption and thermal stealth property

Abstract

Fabric-based electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption materials are desirable owing to their inherent flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and easily conformable lightweight structures. However, the problems such as high density and susceptibility to abrasion limit their applications and service life. Herein, flexible fabric-based EMW absorption material (FEMWAM) were prepared by a multiscale synergistic approach. At the microscopic scale, CF@NiCo2O4@MnO2 absorbents with enhanced impedance matching and interfacial polarization are prepared by solvent method and hydrothermal process. The influence of heterostructure on the electromagnetic response is also examined. At the macroscopic scale, flexible FEMWAM are prepared by freeze-drying. The electromagnetic parameters of FEMWAM was effectively regulated by altering the amount of the CF@NiCo2O4@MnO2 absorbents, which achieve excellent EMW absorption performance and thermal insulation property while maintaining flexibility. The minimal reflection loss (RLmin) of −27.8 dB can be achieved at a thickness of 2.70 mm, and an EAB covering the complete X-band can be obtained when the thickness is in the range of 3.20–3.26 mm. The large thickness range provides convenience for the control of dimensional accuracy in actual production, so as to better adapt to practical applications. These findings provide effective guidance for the preparation of EMW absorption materials with excellent flexibility, thermal insulation properties and absorption performance.