Microwave Absorption Performance of Core–Shell rGO/Ni0.5Co0.5Fe2O4@PEDOT Composite: An Effective Approach to Reduce Electromagnetic Wave Pollution

Abstract

In recent years, the modern technologies working with electromagnetic waves are growing rapidly. Along with this side, malfunctioning in electronic devices and harmful effects of electromagnetic waves on living bodies are observed. Thus, to reduce the electromagnetic radiations pollution and interference problems, electromagnetic wave absorber materials are intensely in demand. Herein, with the aim, the core–shell designed rGO/NiCoFe2O4@PEDOT composites are synthesized through in situ oxidative polymerization method. The structural, morphological, and thermal properties of the composites are studied. The TEM and SEM results confirm the polymerization of PEDOT over the surface of rGO/NiCoFe2O4, i.e., the genesis of core–shell structure formation. The absorption of electromagnetic waves is investigated in the Ku‐frequency band. The maximum microwave absorption and total shielding effectiveness of rGO/NiCoFe2O4@PEDOT composite are estimated as 34.74 dB and 38.79, respectively, with broad absorption bandwidth. The surpassing absorption performance is gained by its characteristic properties such as improved impedance matching, synergic effects of dielectric and magnetic loss, and attenuated behavior exhibited by the material. A comprehensive discussion on the absorption mechanism is presented in this article. The enhanced shielding results of rGO/NiCoFe2O4@PEDOT composite reveal that the material can be used to design lightweight microwave absorbers.