Minimum Reflection Research Articles

Lightweight carbon fiber aerogel@hollow carbon/Co3O4 microsphere for broadband electromagnetic wave absorption in X and Ku bands

The increasing proliferation of modern communications, radar systems, and military equipment operating in the X and Ku bands (8–18 GHz) has exacerbated the issue of electromagnetic wave (EMW) pollution, highlighting the urgent need for lightweight, broadband EMW-absorbing materials. In this paper, the lightweight carbon fiber aerogel@hollow carbon/Co3O4 microsphere (CFA@H–C/Co3O4) were composed by ZIF-67 derived hollow carbon/Co3O4 microsphere and bamboo cellulose fiber derived carbon fiber aerogels and constructed by in-situ chemical deposition, dopamine treatment and pyrolysis. Carbon fiber aerogels form a lightweight three-dimensional (3D) interconnected conductive network, which expands the multiple reflection and absorption paths of EMW and increases the dielectric loss. The hollow carbon/Co3O4 microsphere inhibits the collapse of the structure by forming a polydopamine shell through the self-polymerization effect of dopamine on the surface of ZIF-67 during pyrolysis, showing dipole polarization loss, interface polarization loss and magnetic loss, which plays an important role in improving EMW polarization loss and optimizing impedance matching. The minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of CFA@H–C/Co3O4 reaches −43.5 dB at frequency of 12.88 GHz with thickness of 3.0 mm and the effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of CFA@H–C/Co3O4 reaches 7.84 GHz (10.08–17.92 GHz) with thickness of 3.0 mm, covering most of X and Ku bands at a low filling ratio of 15 wt%. The radar cross-section (RCS) value of CFA@H–C/Co3O4 is 22.68 dB m2 lower than the perfect electrical conductor (PEC). This study provides valuable insights into materials that can improve the absorption bandwidth of electromagnetic waves in the X and KU bands.

Facile constructing core-shell F–CIP@O/N-SWCNHs composites for high-performance microwave absorption and anti-corrosion

The development of electromagnetic wave-absorbing materials (EWAMs) with good environmental adaptability has emerged as a focal point of research in the realm of electromagnetic protection. Herein, a core-shell structure composite EWAMs, in which flake carbonyl iron powders and O, N co-doped single-walled carbon nanohorns are respectively a core and a shell (F–CIP@O/N-SWCNHs), has been prepared by a simple electrostatic adsorption method. The high-shape anisotropy of the F–CIP core exhibits strong specific saturation magnetization (160.47 emu/g) and excellent magnetic loss capacity. The tunable O/N-SWCNHs shell effectively enhances the dielectric properties and improves impedance matching, while the oxygen and nitrogen doping strengthens the dipole polarization. The surface protection provided by O/N-SWCNHs imparts favorable corrosion resistance and anti-oxidation properties to the F-CIP@O/N-SWCNHs. Moreover, F–CIP@O/N-SWCNHs exhibit excellent wave absorption performance. When the sample thickness is 1.53 mm, the minimum reflection loss reaches −74.8 dB. This study provides a feasible approach for the preparation of efficient EWAMs with strong environmental adaptability for the practical application of composite-absorbing materials.

Regulation of PPy Growth States by Employing Porous Organic Polymers to Obtain Excellent Microwave Absorption Performance.

Regulating the different growth states of polypyrrole (PPy) is a key strategy for obtaining PPy composites with high electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption properties. This work finds that the growth states of PPy is regulated by controlling the amount of pyrrole added during the preparation of composites, so as to regulate the development of conductive networks to obtain excellent EMW absorption performance. The POP/PPy-200 composite achieves an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 6.24GHz (11.76-18.00GHz) at a thickness of only 2.34mm, covering 100% of the Ku band. The minimum reflection loss of -73.05dB can be demonstrated at a thickness of only 2.29mm, while at the same time showing an EAB of 5.96GHz to meet the requirements of "thin", "light", "wide", and "strong". Such excellent EMW absorption performance is attributed to the conductive loss caused by the regulation of the growth states of PPy and the polarization loss caused by the heterostructure. This work also addresses the key challenge that porous organic polymers (POPs) cannot be applied to EMW absorption due to poor conductivity and providing new insights into the candidates for EMW absorbing materials.

Achieving efficient electromagnetic absorption in multifunctional carbon nanotube aerogels by manipulating radialized network structure

The rapid advancements in communication technology have greatly propelled the widespread applications of artificial intelligence (AI). While AI technology facilitates society, it also brings the unavoidable electromagnetic hazards and the issue of disposal of electronic plastic wastes. So, utilizing electronic plastic wastes to constructing carbon-based electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption materials, are highly promising. However, how to use CNTs from plastic wastes to build good EMW absorption performance aerogels is a critical challenge. In this work, highly porous and well-interconnected network aerogels constructed by radialized CNT arrays are rationally designed under the guidance of grave-to-cradle strategy, exhibiting altered impedance matching and multiple EMW attenuation methods. Theoretical calculations suggest that a well-designed heterojunction interface structure can enhance the conductivity and interface polarization of CNTAs. The CNT aerogels (CNTAs) realize broad absorption bandwidth covering 8.48 GHz with a minimum reflection loss of −59.5 dB. Moreover, the radialized arrays network of CNTAs also endows it with electromagnetic protection, thermal management, self-cleaning, and air purification functions. These inspiring achievements of multifunctional CNTA-2 provides new help for the safe and stable promotion of the AI era.

Design of a yolk-shell ternary metal sulfide with a tunable structure for high-performance electromagnetic wave absorption.

Herein, we report a strategy for preparing a novel ternary metal sulfide (TMS) with a yolk-shell structure based on a "penetration-solidification-annealing" method. A series of FeCoNiSxGy with tunable structure, different morphology and composition was synthesized by adjusting the degree of sulfuration. Due to the synergistical manipulation of rich interface, defects, vacancies and electrical conductivity, as well as the unique yolk-shell structure, the appropriate sulfuration strategy achieved excellent impedance-matching and strong dielectric loss. The as-synthesized FeCoNiSxGy sulfides were blended with paraffin wax (under a filler loading of 30 wt%), which had the minimum reflection loss of -49.44 dB (2.20 mm) and the effective absorption bandwidth of 4.76 GHz (1.6 mm). In conclusion, this work could aid the design and regulation of a new type of ternary metal sulfides with high-performance electromagnetic wave absorption.

C/Co3O4/Diatomite Composite for Microwave Absorption.

Transition metal oxides have been widely used in microwave-absorbing materials, but how to improve impedance matching is still an urgent problem. Therefore, we introduced urea as a polymer carbon source into a three-dimensional porous structure modified by Co3O4 nanoparticles and explored the influence of different heat treatment temperatures on the wave absorption properties of the composite. The nanomaterials, when calcined at a temperature of 450 °C, exhibited excellent microwave absorption capabilities. Specifically, at an optimized thickness of 9 mm, they achieved a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of -97.3 dB, accompanied by an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 9.83 GHz that comprehensively covered both the S and Ku frequency bands. On the other hand, with a thickness of 3 mm, the RLmin was recorded as -17.9 dB, with an EAB of 5.53 GHz. This excellent performance is attributed to the multi-facial polarization and multiple reflections induced by the magnetic loss capability of Co3O4 nanoparticles, the electrical conductivity of C, and the unique three-dimensional structure of diatomite. For the future development of bio-based microwave absorption, this work provides a methodology and strategy.

Multi-heterogeneous interfaces boost dielectric polarization in PBA-derived Co/MnO@NC ternary composites for electromagnetic wave absorption

The elaborate construction of multi-component composites has been deemed as a promising strategy to enhance dielectric polarization response capability in the preparation of highly efficient microwave absorbers. However, the rational design and integration of homogeneous composites with diverse components continues to pose a great challenge. Herein, we propose a straightforward self-assembly-carbonization strategy for fabricating Co/MnO@NC ternary composites derived from CoMn-Prussian Blue Analogous precursors, featuring enriched heterogeneous interfaces and balanced magneto-electric coupling synergy. The ternary composites effectively introduce diverse dissipation mechanisms, including interfacial polarization behavior originated from the constructed heterogeneous interfaces, dipole polarization relaxation triggered by atomic defects, and optimized magnetic loss ability from well-dispersed metallic Co species. Benefiting from these advantages, the Co/MnO@NC composites demonstrate superior electromagnetic wave absorption performances, with a minimum reflection loss value of −61.37 dB at the thickness of 3.5 mm and effective frequency absorption bandwidth of 6.32 GHz, covering the full Ku-band. Furthermore, power loss density and radar cross-section simulations validate that the Co/MnO@NC ternary composites possess exceptional microwave signal attenuation abilities, with a maximum radar cross-section reduction value of up to 27.98 dBm2 at 0°. Such outstanding absorption properties exceed those of most currently reported ternary composites and exhibit significant potential to replace conventional ferromagnetic-based absorbers. This work offers a straightforward strategy to fabricate ternary composites with excellent electromagnetic wave attenuation properties and sheds novel insights into the dissipation mechanisms.

Fabrication of MXene-encapsulated Co@C nanoparticles for efficient microwave absorption in the X-band

Two-dimensional MXene has structural advantages in electromagnetic wave scattering due to its layered structure, but MXene materials can lead to impedance mismatch problems due to their high dielectric constants, so it is still a challenge to design highly efficient wave-absorbing materials based on MXene with low reflection loss, thin thickness, and wide absorption frequency. In this study, composite wave-absorbing materials were fabricated from Co–Co PBA precursors and MXene using liquid nitrogen flash freezing and freeze-drying techniques. By treating MXene and the PBA precursor at a high temperature of 750 °C, a rich heterogeneous interface was formed between Co@C and MXene (CCM7), and the impedance matching was optimized to improve the reflection loss capability. The optimized sample has an effective absorption bandwidth of 4.1 GHz at 2.5 mm covering the entire X-band with a minimum reflection loss of −61.42 dB. It is also demonstrated that CCM7 is satisfactory for Radar Cross-Section of flat panels and unmanned aerial vehicles by CST calculations, and this work provides a fresh perspective on the use of effective MXene composites for microwave absorption.

Growth behavior of anisotropic monometallic MOFs derivatives with the high absorbing and thermal properties

The growth behavior and morphological characteristics of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) should be considered as important factors in understanding their structure. Therefore, MOFs with atypical shapes, heterogeneous structures or abnormal properties that grow anisotropic can serve as components and templates for further directed assembly or conversion into MOF derivatives with excellent performance in electromagnetic wave absorption. Cobalt (Co) and nickel (Ni) metals have good magnetic properties and are common materials for the preparation of monometallic MOF-derived. In this study, various MOF materials with anisotropic properties, such as rod-like, flower-like, and braided, were prepared by adjusting the molar ratio of Co and Ni solvent to the organic ligand. Due to the rich inter-facial polarization and strong magnetic coupling network of the magnetic composites, Ni-MOF-b (Ni-MOF with braided shape) was prepared for the first time when the molar ratio of nickel nitrate to linker was 1:1.2. The Ni-C-b was obtained after pyrolysis of Ni-MOF-b, the minimum reflection loss of Ni-C-b was –50.7 dB at 4.0 mm. In addition, the thermal conductivity of the film prepared with Ni-C-b as filler is 2.2 W/mK. The film with integrated good heat dissipation and wave absorbing properties provides a research idea for the design of multifunctional integrated film.

Sulfidation and reassembly strategy enables yolk-shell metal sulfide/alloy nanoparticles @carbon with efficient electromagnetic wave absorption

Constructing hybrid metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) demonstrates significant potential to improve electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption performance by leveraging synergistic effects between composition and structure, addressing challenges in tuning electromagnetic parameters of single-composition MOFs. This study proposes a sophisticated strategy involving sulfidation-interface growth-reassembly: sulfide nanoparticles form by sulfidating the core (CoFe-MIL-88A), and then ZIF-67 guests grow and reassemble on the sulfided host MOF, resulting in a layered EMW absorption material. The composite material integrates synergistic effects, which include high conductive loss and defect/interface/dipole polarization induced by N and S atom doping. The CFSNC composite material outperforms previously published values, achieving a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −65.96 dB and an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 6.15 GHz with a thickness of merely 2 mm. Simulation calculations of the real far-field radar cross-section (RCS) further validate its practical application potential. This work introduces novel ideas and methods for designing and preparing high-performance EMW absorption materials, offering both theoretical insights and practical applications.

Ingeniously construction of industrial carbon fiber/nickel-iron layered double hydroxide heterostructure composite for high-efficient microwave absorption in aircraft

To enhance the survivability of military aircraft in electromagnetic warfare, carbon fiber/nickel-iron layered double hydroxide (CF/NiFe-LDH) composites with heterogeneous structure were constructed starting from the raw industrial carbon fiber (CF) by electrostatic self-assembly. By reasonably adjusting the mass ratio of CF and NiFe-LDH, the voids formed by LDH arrays stacked on the fiber surface are utilized to promote reflection and scattering of electromagnetic wave (EMW), optimizing impedance matching, as well as synergize dielectric-magnetic dual loss mechanism. Moreover, interfacial polarization effect induced by the abundant heterogeneous interfaces significantly enhance the ability of EMW dissipation. The optimized CF/NiFe-LDH heterostructure composite exhibits the minimum reflection loss (RLmin) value of −52.48 dB at mere 1.77 mm thickness and an expansive maximum effective bandwidth (EABmax) of 7.29 GHz at 2.14 mm. In addition, the computer simulation technology (CST) revealed that the radar scattering cross section (RCS) reduction of composites reaches up to 26.92 dBm2 at an incidence angle of 90°, demonstrating their excellent radar attenuation capability. Tremendously, the heterogeneous composites achieve an SRL1 value of 524.8, which is appreciably better than most of the EMW absorbing materials. The wondrous characteristics including lightweight, ultra-thin, high-efficient microwave absorbing ability of CF/NiFe-LDH heterostructure composites display potential application in fighter aircraft.

Graphene/carbon nanotube aerogels with ultralow filling ratio through perfect cross-linking interface for efficient microwave absorption

Utilizing high-efficiency electrostatic assembly and a scalable freeze-drying technique followed by carbonization, we have developed a series of unique, lightweight, hierarchically porous 1D+2D aerogels containing carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO). By manipulating the interaction between CNTs and graphene oxide perjurer in cellulose nanofiber (CNF), CNTs can uniformly distribute along the graphene cell walls via an exceptional cross-linking interface in the resultant rGO/CNT aerogels. This arrangement enables abundant heterogeneous interfaces, endowing the aerogels with high conductivity and polarization loss capacity. Moreover, the 1D+2D microstructure of CNT/rGO and the hierarchical pore architecture of the aerogels facilitate multiple scattering, further enhancing their loss capacity toward electromagnetic wave absorption (EMW). Coupled with the optimized impedance matching derived from the adjustable dielectric properties, the aerogels exhibit outstanding EMW absorption with a filling ratio of merely 2 wt%. Specifically, a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −49.61 dB and an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 4.16 GHz are achieved. With a filling ratio of 3 wt%, the RLmin reaches −77.51 dB, accompanied by an EAB of 3.84 GHz, surpassing the reported carbon or graphene-based aerogel EMW absorbers. In this work, the ultra-low filling ratio resulting from high conductivity confers a practical design for fabricating lightweight carbon-based aerogels suitable for high-efficiency EMW absorption, manifesting multiple applications in electromagnetic compatibility and aerospace contexts.

Three-dimensional n-MoSe2/GOx (n= 1T, 1T' and 2H) microsphere: Phase-modulation strategy and microwave absorbing mechanism

MoSe2 was identified as a potential microwave absorber, whereas its practical application was predominantly affected by the ambiguous electromagnetic wave attenuation mechanism and dielectric properties. Here, we developed a novel phase assembly-modulating strategy to prepare n-MoSe2/GOx (n = 1T, 1T' and 2H) composites, wherein phase modulation of MoSe2 exerted a gainful effect on microwave absorption properties. The unique 1T′-MoSe2 phase was first explored in microwave absorption and composited with GOx to afford advanced conductivity loss and dielectric loss. The introduction of additional interface (2H/1T or 2H/1T') and abundant unsaturated defects promote multiple polarization, the semiconductor-metal mixed phase brought in a certain magnetic loss, optimizes the electron transfer ability and adjusts the impedance matching. Consequently, 1T′-MoSe2/GOx provides the minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −52.08 dB and the effective absorption bandwidth (EAB, RL < -10 dB) of 5.3 GHz at 10 % filler content, which is approximately 9 times that of 2H–MoSe2/GOx and nearly 5 times that of 1T-MoSe2/GOx. This paper specifically explains the reasons for the phase modulation-induced magnetic losses and provides an effective phase modulation paradigm for developing advanced transition metal disulfide (such as MoS2, WS2 and WSe2) microwave absorbers.

Fe3C/Fe implanted hierarchical porous carbon as efficient electromagnetic wave absorber

The rapid development of communication technology has led to severe microwave pollution, which presents a challenge for microwave-absorbing composites. Current research suggests achieving superior microwave absorption requires the use of multi-component operation and ingenious structural design. Consequently, the present study has prepared continuous porous carbon (CPC) materials doped with large amounts of Fe3C/Fe nanoparticles (Fe@CPC) using carbonization and acid etching. By balancing the advantages of the above strategies, it is possible to address issues such as poor impedance match, single loss capacity, easy oxidation of magnetic metals/alloys, and the limited absorption bandwidth of conventional absorbing materials at the same time. The material exhibits a minimum reflection loss of −23.2 dB with an efficient absorption range of 5.3 GHz at 1.9 mm at a filler content of just 10 wt% in the paraffin matrix. In this paper, the samples with a continuous porous structure were prepared by a simple method, and the properties were excellent due to the appropriate preparation method and the synergistic effect of the multi-component composite. The porous structure facilitates the presence of a considerable number of active sites, which enables the loading of a substantial quantity of metal ions. Furthermore, nanoparticles are capable of aggregating and dispersing on the surface. This paper presents a theoretical framework for understanding the synergistic effect of microwave radiation through interfacial polarization and micro-scale magnetic interaction. Nevertheless, there are still obstacles to overcome in terms of achieving precise control over the structural design and ensuring the compatible integration of metal components.

Regulating the phase composition and microstructure of Fe3Si/SiC nanofiber composites to enhance electromagnetic wave absorption

The rational introduction of multi-components to fabricate electromagnetic wave absorbing (EMA) materials with synergistic conductive/dielectric/magnetic losses promises lightweighting and excellent EMA performance, but it remains a challenge. In this work, multicomponent Fe3Si/SiC nanofibre composites with network structure were constructed by electrostatic spinning method and in-situ carbothermal reduction strategy. Design of microstructures and multicomponent modulation by controlling the carbothermal reduction temperature. As a result, the presence of a large number of non-homogeneous interfaces, three-dimensional (3D) conductive network structures and defect structures in Fe3Si/SiC nanofibre composites induces a combination of multiple loss mechanisms that significantly improve the EMA performance. When the filling amount of Fe3Si/SiC in the paraffin transmission matrix is 20 wt%, the maximum effective absorption bandwidth (EABmax) of the fabricated material reaches 5.84 GHz with a thin thickness of 2.02 mm. Moreover, the minimum reflection loss (RLmin) value at 10.96 GHz is as low as −67.57 dB. Meanwhile, the radar cross-section (RCS) simulation verifies that the F-4 peak RCS is reduced to −30.37 dB in the range of −60°<θ < 60°. It indicates that the Fe3Si/SiC nanofiber composites have a good radar-wave dissipation capability in practical applications. In summary, the comprehensive performance of lightweight multicomponent Fe3Si/SiC nanofiber composites can meet the new application requirements and is expected to become an emerging multifunctional wave-absorbing material suitable for harsh environments.

Construction of a highly ordered SiC nanofiber@C fiber heterojunction hybrid with a fuzzy grass-like structure for enhanced microwave absorbing performance

Carbon fibers (Cf) materials with excellent dielectric loss are increasingly attracting attention in the field of microwave absorption. However, the inherent high conductivity of carbon materials usually causes impedance mismatch, which seriously limits their widespread applications in the field of electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption. To solve this problem, a highly ordered SiC nanofiber@C fiber (SiCnf@Cf) heterojunction hybrid with a fuzzy grass-like structure was fabricated through a simple chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. Providing a heterogeneous interface on the surface of carbon fibers not only improves their impedance matching capability but also enhances their interfacial loss capability. As a result, a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) for SiCnf@Cf heterojunction hybrid is −44.04 dB at 13.6 GHz with a thickness of 1.2 mm, and a maximum effective absorption bandwidth (EABmax) is 3.44 GHz with a thin thickness of 1.1 mm. Furthermore, it also exhibits outstanding thermal insulation performance, which make it a potential candidate for heat-insulating applications. And due to its lightweight and soft characteristics, it perfectly meets the needs of wearable flexible absorbing materials. Therefore, this study not only provides a straightforward for preparing EMW-absorbing materials with exceptional performance, but also offers a solution for improving the thermal stability of the carbon-based material.

Facile manufacturing of carbon nanotube/ZIF-67-derived cobalt composite aerogel with high-efficiency electromagnetic wave absorption

Developing high-efficiency electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbers by designing dielectric/magnetic components and microstructure in a straightforward, scalable method is highly desirable yet challenging. Here, we introduce a novel hierarchical composite aerogel-based EMW absorber composed of conductive carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and magnetic metal-organic framework (MOF) derivatives, integrated with sustainable cellulose nanofibers (CNF) derived carbon. This composite was prepared using a scalable freeze-casting followed by carbonization approach. Freeze casting enabled the creation of porous monoliths with high specific surface areas and customizable pore sizes and porosities, crucial for enhancing EMW reflection and scattering. Carbonization enhanced composite conductivity and stabilized the cobalt (Co)/carbon nanoparticles derived from ZIF-67 within the carbon matrix. CNF-derived carbon facilitated the efficient integration of ZIF-derived Co nanoparticles and CNTs, resulting in a robust 3D aerogel structure. The synergistic effects of CNT conductive paths and Co nanoparticles' magnetic losses provided an efficient route to enhance EMW absorption. Moreover, the creation of numerous heterogeneous interfaces augmented polarization losses, significantly enhancing EMW loss capability. Remarkably, the composite achieved outstanding EMW absorption, with a minimum reflection loss of -71.03 dB at a filling ratio of merely 10 wt.% and an effective absorption bandwidth of 4.64 GHz, comparable to leading EMW absorbers reported to date.

Controlled assembly engineering of Co@Co9S8-Glass micro-nano composite hollow microspheres towards microwave absorption improvement

Multiscale shell structure design is a rational and promising way to regulate the performance of hollow spheres in terms of both functionality and structural robustness, but it remains a big challenge to realize micro-nano engineering of the thin shell while maintaining the low density. In this work, the divisional shell design strategy was adopted to obtain the glass-cobalt-cobalt sulfide composite hollow microspheres (CSH), and an unprecedented stepwise high-temperature chemical reaction-induced aggregation and subsequent volume expansion strategy was developed to achieve rational regulation of core-shell structured cobalt-cobalt sulfide building units (BU) assembled on hollow glass microspheres. Special attention has been paid to the sulfidation degree-induced volume control with the underlying mechanism of volume expansion during chemical conversion from metallic cobalt to cobalt sulfide. The electromagnetic property was found to depend largely on the sulfidation degree due to the volume expansion-induced interconnecting status regulation among the BU. When evaluated as microwave absorbent, an optimized broad bandwidth of 5.12 GHz and a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of –45.58 dB of our CSH can be achieved at a thin matching thickness of 1.67 mm and a low filling ratio of 20.04 wt%. In addition to functionality, the divisional shell design also brings the CSH high structural strength (92.36% survival rate at a high hydrostatic pressure of 20 MPa) at low density (0.73 g cm–3).

Microwave absorption properties of β-type ferrites: Influence of Nd-loading percentage on structural, spectral, elemental, and electrical features

Hexagonal ferrites have drawn significant attention due to a broad range of telecommunication and stealth technology applications. β-Type hexagonal ferrites are rarely used in various technological applications. In the current work, Nd3+ substituted polycrystalline β-type hexagonal ferries with composition LiFe11-x NdxO17 (x = 0.0–0.04, ∇ x = 0.01) were prepared using the sol-gel method. All prepared samples were sintered at 1000 °C for 4 h. The influence of Neodymium (Nd3+) on its structural, electrical, and dielectric properties was investigated. Lattice parameters (a, c) and Vcell increased with varying Neodymium substitution levels. The crystallite size was measured in the range of 38–42 nm. Fourier Transform IR (Infrared) spectroscopy exposed the presence of two spectral bands at 416 to 449 cm−1 and 449 to 489 cm−1. XPS (x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) analysis verified the presence of metal ions and their chemical states in all prepared samples. The dielectric constant, loss, tan δ, and σac (ac-conductivity) decreased by increasing Nd3+ content. Jonscher's power law explains the conduction mechanism of charge carriers in all fabricated samples. The influence of relaxation time and grain boundaries on the electrical characteristics of prepared nanomaterials was investigated by impedance analysis. SEM (scanning electron microscopy) confirms the successful formation of β-hexaferrite nanomaterials. A minimum reflection loss of −32.08 dB was observed at 1.5 GHz for the x = 0.04 sample. This minimum reflection loss evidenced the novelty of the research and suggested their usefulness in high-frequency microwave applications. All samples investigated in this research work are suitable for high-frequency applications, multilayer chip inductors, and EM interference shielding.

Confined magnetic nickel nanoparticles in carbon microspheres with high-performance electromagnetic wave absorption in Ku-band

Composition and structure regulation is the primary strategy in preparing high-performance electromagnetic (EM) wave absorption materials. Herein, magnetic-dielectric synergy Ni@C microspheres were fabricated to obtain the high-performance electromagnetic (EM) wave absorption performance. Firstly, the Ni-containing precursor microspheres were obtained via the spray-drying technology. Secondly, reduced magnetic Ni nanoparticles (NPs) were confined in the N-doped carbon microspheres after pyrolysis treatment in the H2/Ar atmosphere. Duo to the existence of melamine, the distribution of Ni NPs and related EM parameters of Ni@C microspheres were efficiently regulated to seek the well impedance matching and EM responded ability. As results, as-synthesized Ni@C microspheres exhibited the minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −48.2 dB and effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 5.7 GHz, covering almost Ku-band. This research represents a significant advancement in the development of magnetic-dielectric composite microspheres with superior absorption capacity, and it also provides a large-scale preparation strategy for electromagnetic wave absorbing materials.