Hierarchical structures of carbon nanotubes anchored on core-sheath microrads toward electromagnetic wave absorption and shielding with Joule heating and superhydrophobic capacities

Abstract

Hierarchical structures with synergistic dielectric-magnetic compositions are highly desired for electromagnetic wave absorption and interference shielding applications. Fabricating lightweight and high-performance electromagnetic protection composites with additional functions are demanded to suppress severe electromagnetic radiation and interference pollution. Herein, a unique three-dimensional hierarchical structure consisting of 1D multi-walled carbon nanotubes anchored on 1D MXene@CF core-sheath microrods are rationally proposed via electrostatic self-assembly and hydrothermal strategy as well as subsequent thermal-catalysis treatment. The multi-walled carbon nanotubes encapsulated with magnetic CoNi nanoparticles are immobilized onto core-sheath microrods matrix, constructing effective 1D/1D electron migration bridges and the uniformly dispersed magnetic component to facilitate magnetic coupling effect. Consequently, profiting from the optimized impedance matching, enhanced conduction loss, dielectric polarization, and magnetic loss, the as-prepared sample shows an outstanding absorption capacity with reflection loss value of −56.8 dB and X-band full absorption. When used as electromagnetic shielding materials, the composites exhibit exceptional electromagnetic interference shielding properties. In addition, the upgraded mechanical strength, remarkable voltage-driven Joule heating and superhydrophobic properties endow the absorbers with multi-scenario adaptability and long life-time applications. This work provides well-designed hierarchical structures for high-performance electromagnetic absorbing and shielding with the great prospect of multifunctional applications.