Reflection Loss Research Articles

Electromagnetic absorption properties of composite mortar with graphene and manganese-zinc ferrite

Electromagnetic wave absorption of building structures plays a crucial role in safeguarding information and mitigating electromagnetic radiation. This study delves into the absorption capabilities of composite mortar made with graphene (GR) and manganese-zinc ferrite (MFO) across frequencies of 1−18 GHz. The mechanical strength, microstructural examinations, and numerical simulations to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of wave absorption in the composite mortar are investigated. The results indicate that incorporating 30% MFO reduces the strength of mortar due to its low bonding capacity and diluting effects, whereas GR enhances the strength of mortar by facilitating cement hydration. Electromagnetic examinations reveal that MFO boosts the magnetic loss performance, while GR augments dielectric loss properties. In addition, the presence of needle, rod, mesh, and flake hydration products in the pores of composite mortar also contributes to increased wave depletion. According to the simulation of electromagnetic absorption based on the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method, the composite mortar with GR and MFO exhibits a superior performance of electromagnetic wave absorption. With the 25 mm thickness of composite mortar with 30% MFO, an absorption below -10 dB, covering a bandwidth of 1.68−4.34 GHz are obtained, with a peak reflection loss of -22.13 dB at 3.23 GHz. Thus, by combination magnetic loss of MFO, dielectric loss of GR, and the reflective capabilities of porous mortar, a composite mortar with a better electromagnetic wave absorption can be achieved.

Efficient carburization of high-entropy alloys from polyethylene microplastics using a green mechanochemical process to obtain excellent wave absorbing performance

Polyethylene as a major white pollutant has a significant negative impact on the environment and the human health. Beneficial recycling of polyethylene through mechanochemical processes not only can eliminate environmental hazards, but also enable some beneficial industrial applications. In this work, polyethylene was used as the raw materials of carburization of FeCoNiMn high-entropy alloys (HEAs) by a green mechanochemical method. The phase structure, magnetic properties, high-temperature oxidation resistance, corrosion resistance and electromagnetic-wave absorbing performance of the obtained carburized HEAs were investigated in detail. The carburized-FeCoNiMn HEAs exhibited excellent corrosion resistance, suggesting great application potential for use in harsh environments. Besides, the impedance matching was optimized and the electromagnetic-wave absorption bandwidth was expanded by this carburization process. Specifically, the reflection loss of C10 (FeCoNiMnC0.1) at 8.88 GHz reached −65.07 dB at a thickness of 2.79 mm, and both the C50 (FeCoNiMnC0.5) and C90 (FeCoNiMnC0.9) exhibited a maximum absorption bandwidth of 5.45 GHz. This work provides a new concept of utilizing common microplastic pollutants to achieve efficient carburization of HEAs by a green mechanochemical process.

Construction of cobalt zinc metal-organic frameworks derived Co/CoO/C composites toward broadband and high-efficiency electromagnetic wave absorption

The fabrication of novel carbon-based electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbers with broad absorption bandwidth, strong absorption strength, low filler loading ratio and thin matching thickness remains a challenging task. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are widely recognized as ideal self-sacrificial templates for the construction of carbon-based EMW absorbers. In this work, bimetallic CoZn-MOFs derived Co/CoO/C composites were prepared by combining magnetic stirring with subsequent pyrolysis treatment. The results showed that the morphology of carbon skeletons evolved from an irregular agglomerate to a uniform hexagonal star shape and then to an agglomerate again by reducing the molar ratio of Co2+ to Zn2+. Remarkably, excellent EMW absorption capacity in the Ku-band was achieved through carefully regulating the molar ratio of Co2+ to Zn2+. When the filling ratio was 20wt.%, the prepared Co/CoO/C composite exhibited the best EMW absorption performance with the minimum reflection loss of -64 dB at a thickness of 1.79mm and the maximum effective absorption bandwidth of 6GHz at a thickness of 2.14mm. Furthermore, the radar cross section in the far-field was simulated by computer simulation technique. In addition, the possible EMW attenuation mechanism was proposed. Therefore, the results of this paper could be helpful for developing carbon-based magnetic composites derived from MOFs as broadband and high-efficiency EMW absorbers.

Synthesis of nano-diamond modified Ti3C2Tx MXene heterostructure for enhanced electromagnetic wave absorption

The highly efficient electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption materials are considered a promising approach to combatting electromagnetic radiation pollution. We synthesized a novel heterostructure 2D Ti3C2Tx MXene composite film modified by 0D nano-diamond (ND) particles using simple mechanical stirring and a vacuum filtration method. Subsequently, we investigated its microstructure and EMW absorption properties. The ND modification not only regulated the impedance matching of the composite films but also enhanced the diversity of EMW losses, demonstrating excellent microwave absorption performance. With a 40 wt% ND content, the minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of the films reached −43.0 dB, corresponding to a film thickness of 2.5 mm. This study explored a novel and promising microwave absorption film, expanding the application of diamond in microwave absorption, and addressing the theoretical gap in diamond-enhanced MXene microwave absorption performance.

Chain-arranged Ni1-xCox micro/nano particles prepared via a magnetic field-assisted reduction for enhanced electromagnetic wave absorption

Transition metal magnetic alloys have garnered extensive interests in electromagnetic wave absorption due to the remarkable magnetic loss capacity and unique magnetism-frequency characteristics. Herein, we report a novel magnetic absorbent of Ni1-xCox micro chains that synthesized through a magnetic field-assisted reduction method. The precipitated Ni1-xCox particles could be connected and aligned during the magnetic reduction process. Due to the modified electronic structure of the Co active site by Ni, the particle size in the Ni1-xCox micro chains noticeably increases with increased x. Meanwhile, the complex dielectric constants exhibit a decreasing trend, which contributes to the improved impedance matching and higher resonance frequencies. The connected Ni1-xCox micro/nano particles not only benefit to the conductive loss, but also strengthened the polarization loss on the contacted interfaces among the particles. As a result, significantly enhanced electromagnetic wave absorption performance was obtained with the minimum reflection loss of −21.0 dB and the effective absorption bandwidth of 3.92 GHz at a thickness of only 1.35 mm. Overall, this work has demonstrated the strategy of designing aligned bimetallic absorbent, possessing great potentials in improving their microwave absorption properties.

Enhanced microwave absorption using multiple heterostructures derived from in-situ grown Sn-metal-organic framework on La-doped Fe3O4

As a representative magnetic oxide absorber, Fe3O4 has attracted considerable research attention owing to its remarkable magnetic saturation strength as well as semiconducting properties. Doping Fe3O4 with La3+ leads to 3d-4f magnetic coupling and ion distribution changes due to the unique electron configuration and large ionic radius of La3+, thereby greatly enhancing the magnetic performance. However, high density, low dielectric loss, and low permeability at high frequencies inhibit the electromagnetic wave absorption (EMWA) performance of ferrites. In this study, stick-shaped Sn metal-organic framework (MOF) is in-situ grown on La3+-doped Fe3O4 using a surfactant. After high-temperature annealing, the SnO2/porous carbon composites derived from Sn-MOF wrap the ferrite, forming a core-shell heterostructure, which not only prevents oxidation but also enhances the EMWA performance. Among the prepared LaxFe3-xO4/SnO2/C (LFSC) samples, LFSC-2 (with LaxFe3-xO4 to Sn-MOF ratio of 1:2) exhibits strong absorption performance with a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −44.1 dB. Furthermore, the gradient metamaterial based on LFSC-3 shows ultra-broadband EMWA with an effective absorption bandwidth (RLmin ≤ −10 dB) of 13.17 GHz. In addition, the LFSC-2 sample demonstrates excellent radar stealth capability in the radar cross section (RCS) far-field response, achieving an RCS reduction value of 20.4 dB·m2.

Enhanced Electromagnetic Energy Conversion in an Entropy‐driven Dual‐magnetic System for Superior Electromagnetic Wave Absorption

AbstractThermochemical conversion is a highly effective method for upgrading organic solid wastes into high‐value materials, contributing to carbon neutrality and peak, carbon emission goals. It also serves as a pathway to develop energy‐efficient electromagnetic wave absorbing (EMWA) materials. In this study, fish skin to successfully in situ nitrify Prussian Blue into Fe3N under external thermal driving condition, resulting in high saturation magnetization is utilized. The resulting Fe3N@C demonstrates outstanding EMWA property, achieving a minimum reflection loss of −71.3 dB. Furthermore, by introducing cellulose nanofiber, a portion of the iron nitride is transformed into iron carbide, resulting in Fe3C/Fe3N@C. This composite exhibits enhanced EMWA properties owing to wider local charge redistribution and stronger electronic interactions, achieving an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 6.64 GHz. Electromagnetic simulations and first‐principles calculations further elucidate the EMWA mechanism, and the maximum reduction value of the radar‐cross section reached 37.34 dB·m2. The design of multilayer gradient metamaterials demonstrated an ultra‐broadband EAB of 11.78 GHz. This paper presents an efficient strategy for atomic‐level biomass waste utilization to prepare Fe3N, provides novel insights into the conversion between metal nitrides and metal carbides, and offers a promising direction for the development of advanced EMWA materials.

The synergistic effects on the magnetic CoNi and Fe3O4 nanoparticles co-embedded porous carbon toward enhanced microwave absorbing performance

Abstract Lightweight and environmentally friendly three-dimensional biomass-derived porous carbon (3D BPC) holds great potential as a highly effective material for microwave absorption (MA) applications. However, the high complex permittivity and lack of magnetic loss in a single 3D BPC lead to impedance mismatching and a limited absorption bandwidth. Developing 3D BPC–based absorbers with multiple loss mechanisms and excellent impedance matching remains a notable yet challenging task. In this study, inspired by a synergistic composition and microstructure design, 3D BPC co-embedded with magnetic cobalt–nickel (CoNi) and iron(III) oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (3D BPC@CoNi@Fe3O4) was developed. 3D BPC@CoNi@Fe3O4 exhibited consistently low complex permittivity, primarily due to the suppression of conductive loss, whereas the introduction of magnetic phases (CoNi and Fe3O4) enhanced the magnetic loss. Optimised impedance matching, achieved through the synergistic regulation of the electromagnetic parameters, emerged as the key mechanism for improving the MA properties. The as-synthesised 3D BPC@CoNi@Fe3O4 composite, with only 20 wt.% loading demonstrated a wide effective absorption bandwidth (reflection loss [RL] < −10 dB) of 6.08 GHz and an impressive minimum RL value of −40.08 dB. These findings offer valuable insights into the development of high-performance 3D BPC–based microwave absorbers through composition and microstructure optimisation.

Bamboo-Based Carbon/Co/CoO Heterojunction Structures Based on a Multi-Layer Periodic Matrix Array Can Be Used for Efficient Electromagnetic Attenuation

With the popularization of wireless communication, radar, and electronic devices, the hidden harm of electromagnetic radiation is becoming increasingly serious. The design of green biomass carbon-based interface heterojunctions based on lightweight porous materials can effectively protect against electromagnetic radiation hazards. In this work, we constructed an anisotropic heterojunction interface with magnetic and dielectric coupling based on a honeycomb-like periodic matrix multi-layer array repeating unit. The removal of lignin components from bamboo through oxidation enriches the impregnation pores and uniform adsorption sites of the magnetic medium. Further, in situ pyrolysis promotes the formation of a large number of electric dipoles at the interface between the magnetic medium and dielectric coupling inside the periodic cell carbon skeleton, enhancing interface polarization and relaxation. Local carrier traps and uneven electromagnetic density enhance dielectric and hysteresis losses, resulting in excellent impedance matching. Therefore, the obtained bamboo-based carbon multiphase composite absorbent has satisfactory electromagnetic loss characteristics. At a thickness of 1.55 mm, the effective absorption bandwidth reaches 5.1 GHz, and the minimum reflection loss (RL) value reaches −54.7 dB. In addition, the far-field radar simulation results show that the sample has an excellent RCS (radar cross-section) reduction of 33.3 dB·m2. This work provides new directions for the diversified development of green biomass and the optimization of the design of magnetic and dielectric coupling in periodic array structures.

MoS2 Decorated on 1D MoS2@Co/NC@CF Hierarchical Fibrous Membranes for Enhanced Microwave Absorption.

The design and development of high-quality electromagnetic waves (EMW) absorbing materials play a vital role in combating the escalating negative effects of microwave radiation and interference. Herein, MoS2@Co/NC@CF fibrous membranes are successfully fabricated by electrospinning technology and carbonization, and a molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) layer is synthesized on the surface of these fibers via hydrothermal method. The seed-assisted growth method not only effectively avoids the accumulation and improves the loading of ZIF-67 particles, so as to ensure that the magnetic components in the fibers are evenly distributed in a wider range, rather than only intermittently present in some sites. Meanwhile, the introduction of semiconductor MoS2 as the shell further optimizes the impedance matching and improves the EMW absorption performance of the carbon fibrous membranes: the minimum reflection loss (RLmin) is -67.56dB, and the maximum effective absorption bandwidth (EABmax) is further expanded to 6.56GHz (2.1mm, 11.44-18GHz). This work provides a feasible method for developing high-efficient EMW-absorbing materials.

Tuning Perovskite Crystal Growth Dynamics Using Additives on Textured Silicon Substrates

Double‐sided textured silicon solar cells with micrometer‐sized pyramid structure are used as bottom cells in monolithic tandem structures to decrease reflection losses. As top cell material, frequently perovskites are used. In this work, various additives are investigated to enhance the perovskite absorber quality, as a top cell fabricated using the hybrid route. In the context of the hybrid route, it is found that urea or methylammonium chloride (MACl) can effectively increase the grain size and improve the absorber quality, while formamidinium chloride (FACl) cannot. With urea, the crystallization can be tuned without leaving any voids in the film (unlike MACl). However, when annealed at a high annealing temperature, the excessive crystal growth with urea causes non‐conformal coating and high defect density. By adjusting the annealing conditions and additive concentration, the crystal growth of the perovskite top cell on the micrometer‐sized silicon pyramids can be fine‐tuned, ensuring that the perovskite layer conformally coated the pyramids. The use of additives not only improves crystallization but also enhances the conversion of the inorganics, particularly at the hole transport layer (HTL) interface. Moreover, this work contributes to a better understanding of perovskite crystallization dynamics and how to control it, especially on textured substrates.

Interlayer growth of magnetic nanocomponent in Ti3C2Tx MXene EMW absorbers for periodic electromagnetic synergetic network

Transition metal carbides/carbonitrides (MXene) exhibit huge potential as electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbers in dealing with electromagnetic radiation problem that rise due to the rapid development of 5G era. The incorporation of magnetic materials can effectively mitigate the impedance mismatch and singular loss mechanisms inherent in pure MXenes (PMs). However, challenges persist due to issues such as random distribution, complex preparation processes, and inadequate interaction. In this study, Ti3C2Tx/Ni hybrids were synthesized using a one-pot method, wherein Ni, derived from molten salt, replaces Al layer of MXene, facilitating the in-situ growth of Ni nanocomponents within the interlayered region. The periodic electromagnetic synergetic network of “MXene-Ni-MXene-Ni-MXene” provides substantial magnetic resonance, eddy current loss, interface polarization, defect polarization, and dipole polarization, enriching the loss mechanism. By regulating the concentration of Ni, the intrinsic poor impedance matching of MXene was improved. Consequently, Ti3C2Tx/Ni hybrid exhibited exceptional electromagnetic wave absorption (EMA) performance, achieving a reflection loss (RL) of −64.51 dB and an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 4.96 GHz at a matching thickness of 1.98 mm. Additionally, the super radar cross-section (RCS value = −15.73 dB m2) endow it potential in practical application. This work provides a facile method for achieving unique electromagnetic synergetic loss mechanism, thus paving the way for exploring high-efficient MXene-based EMW absorbers.

Understanding the pressure effect on the physical properties of half-Heusler semiconductor LiCaX (X = As, Sb, N) compounds from Ab-initio calculations

The study delves into the structural, elastic, electronic, thermodynamic, and lattice dynamical and optic properties of LiCaX (X = As, Sb, N) ternary half-Heusler compounds under varying pressure and temperature conditions. Employing density functional theory with the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) in VASP codes, the initial steps involve optimizing the structure of the compound (cubic MgAgAs-type, space group F43m, C1b), determining elastic constants (C11, C12, and C44), and calculating elastic moduli (bulk modulus, shear modulus, Young's modulus). Other mechanical parameters such as Pugh's ratio, Poisson's ratio, and Zener anisotropy factor are also derived, providing insights into the brittle/ductile characteristics and isotropic/anisotropic behavior. The study further explores different vibrational modes in the compounds, and the effects of pressure on elastic anisotropy, vibrational, and optical properties are thoroughly investigated. Utilizing the quasi-harmonic Debye model, the research successfully reports V/Vo, bulk modulus, thermal expansion coefficient, and heat capacity at constant volume over a temperature range from 0 to 1000 K. The variation of photon energy is analyzed concerning the real and imaginary parts of the dielectric constant, refractive indices, extinction coefficient, reflectivity, and energy loss function up to 20 eV. The findings encapsulate the fundamental physical properties of all considered compounds, concluding with suggestions for potential future research avenues.

Comprehensive evaluation of mechanical properties, optoelectronic features, photovoltaic performance, and crystal stability of Ba3MX3 (M = As, Sb; X = Cl, Br, I)

Herein, the first-principles computations are utilized to study the optoelectronic properties, photovoltaic performance, crystal stability, and mechanical features of Ba3MX3 (M = As, Sb; X = Cl, Br, I). Through comprehensive structural stability evaluation, all compounds are determined to be stable. The results indicate that Ba3MX3 (M = As, Sb; X = Cl, Br) is brittle while both Ba3AsI3 and Ba3SbI3 are ductile. The HSE06-based electronic structure calculations show that the direct-gap nature is revealed for six compounds, and the energy band gaps are within the range of 1.35–1.65 eV. The fundamental band gap can be modulated by virtue of X-anion substitution. The low carrier effective masses are disclosed for these compounds. Their optical features exhibit that high solar absorption and weak reflectance and energy loss are observed. Ultimately, an ultra-high theoretical conversion efficiency of 31.9 % is implemented for Ba3MI3 (M = As, Sb). Besides, the remaining four compounds also have high conversion efficiencies within 29–30 %. From the suitability for practical applications, both Ba3AsI3 and Ba3SbI3 are chosen as the best candidates for the absorber layers of effective single-junction solar cells. Our findings unveil the suitability of these inorganic materials for optoelectronic applications.

Ultralight Cellulose-Derived Carbon Nanofibers from Freeze-Drying Emulsion Towards Superior Microwave Absorption

Carbon nanofibers (CNFs) are usually prepared by the carbonization of cellulose aerogels obtained from freeze-drying. However, cellulose with low concentration (below 1 wt%) is required to maintain the good porosity of the aerogels due to the strong hydrogen bonding between the cellulose molecules. In order to address this problem, here, ultralight cellulose-derived CNFs have been fabricated by freeze-drying cyclohexane (CHE)/cellulose nanofiber emulsions and carbonization. Field emission scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy are used to characterize the resulting CNFs. It is found that the CNFs consist of three-dimensional carbon networks, whose microstructure is easily adjusted by changing the CHE ratio (from 0 to 25 vol%) in the emulsions. The CNFs with high porosity are attributed to the fact that CHE as the oil phase can effectively weaken the hydrogen bonding and reduce the aggregation of the cellulose nanofibers. Carbon lattice defects and residual oxygen-containing functional groups are regarded as polarization centers, leading to the enhancement of dielectric loss. The conductive carbon networks also improve the conductive loss. All these factors improve the microwave absorption performance of the CNFs. So, the produced CNFs exhibit a superior electromagnetic wave performance with a minimum reflection loss of −42.18 dB and effective absorption bandwidth up to 4.9 GHz at 2 mm with a filling ratio of 2 wt%. This work provides a simple, low-cost, and sustainable synthesis route for CNFs used for ultralight high-performance microwave absorption materials.

High‐efficiency electromagnetic absorption of HfC–SiCf ceramics with a 3D reticular structure

AbstractThe development of high‐temperature electromagnetic (EM) wave absorbing materials is an important direction for achieving radar stealth in high‐speed aircraft. In this study, HfC–SiCf composite ceramics with 3D reticular structure were synthesized in one‐step using the molten‐salt‐assisted carbon thermal reduction method. During the synthesis process, SiC grew in situ into a fibrous structure with a diameter of 500 nm and lengths ranging from 2 to 30 µm. By adjusting the molar ratio of HfC to SiC, the HfC‐30 mol% SiC (HS30) exhibited the best EM absorption performance at room temperature, with a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −31.4 dB at 16.1 GHz and an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 4.6 GHz. The excellent absorption performance was attributed to the 3D reticular structure composed of SiC fibers, HfC bulk, and HfC nanoparticles, which significantly increased the number of pores and heterogeneous interfaces in the material. These microinterfaces induced interface polarization effects, thereby effectively enhancing the EM absorption. As the temperature increased, the EM absorption performance declined. At 900°C, the HS30 sample exhibited an EAB of 1.18 GHz from 12.4 to 13.58 GHz and an RLmin of 22.6 dB at 13.0 GHz. This research provides references for understanding the effects of material composition and structure on EM absorption performance.

Influence of carbon nanotubes on the absorption performance and mechanical behavior of basalt fiber composite materials

AbstractBasalt fibers (BF) are widely used in shipbuilding due to their excellent corrosion resistance. However, basalt fibers do not possess good electromagnetic wave absorption properties, failing to meet the stealth performance requirements of ships. Therefore, this study focuses on basalt fiber composite materials, modifying the matrix by adding different amounts of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Carbon nanotube‐basalt fiber‐epoxy resin absorptive composite materials are prepared using Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) technique to investigate the influence of CNT content on the materials. Samples with added CNTs can effectively absorb electromagnetic waves in the low‐frequency range, reducing surface reflectivity. In the high‐frequency range, the impedance matching value of the samples initially increases slowly. When the CNT content reaches 1.5 wt%, at a thickness of 2.5 mm and a frequency of 9.6 GHz, the minimum reflection loss of the sample is −14.40 dB, with an effective absorption bandwidth of 0.7 GHz. Also, CNTs can enhance the mechanical properties of composite materials. With increasing CNT content, both the bending strength and tensile strength of the composite materials are improved. When the CNT content reaches 1.5 wt%, the average tensile fracture strength of the material increases by 21%, and the bending strength increases by 9%.Highlights Enhanced low‐frequency electromagnetic wave absorption from CNTs and reduced polarization. Improved impedance matching and attenuation at high frequencies with CNTs. Significant enhancement in flexural and tensile strength due to CNTs and basalt fibers.

Dielectric Properties and Microwave Absorbing Properties of Silicon Carbide Nanoparticles and Silicon Carbide Nanowhiskers

Silicon carbide (SiC) is well known for their outstanding microwave absorbing properties. SiC nanomaterials (SiCNMs) are expected to have better microwave absorption performance due to their high specific surface area. To date, no study was reported to compare the dielectric properties and microwave absorbing properties of different type of SiCNMs. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to compare the dielectric properties and microwave absorption properties of different types of SiCNMs. In this paper, SiC nanoparticles (SiCNPs) and SiC nanowhiskers (SiCNWs) were characterised using SEM and XRD. In addition, their dielectric properties and microwave absorbing properties were measured using network analyser and transmission line theory. It was found that SiCNWs achieved higher dielectric constant and loss factor which are and εr’ =17.94 and εr″ = 2.64 compared to SiCNPs that only achieved εr’ = 2.83 and εr″ = 0.71. For microwave absorbing properties, SiCNWs and SiCNPs attained minimum reflection loss of -10.41 dB and -6.83 dB at 5.68 GHz and 17.68 GHz, respectively. The minimum reflection loss of SiCNPs and SiCNWs obtained in this study is much lower than the nanometer-SiC reported previously. These results suggested that SiCNWs can be an ideal candidate of microwave susceptors for various microwave applications.

Study on the performance of flat-plate collectors with a bottom-mounted non-tracking broken line type reflector

The current flat-plate collectors commonly utilize non-tracking reflectors, primarily in a flat configuration, which is not optimal because it has a large reflection loss at varying solar altitude angles. Broken line type structures have been proven to exhibit better light concentration effects. However, existing research has focused solely on broken line type reflector installed at the top of the collector, leaving a gap in the study of broken line type reflector installed at the bottom. This paper investigates this aspect. Mathematical models for the performance analysis of collectors with/without bottom-mounted reflectors are established. The accuracy of the models is verified using the light tracing software, TracePro. The study includes the simulation analyses of the collector's performance and reflection losses under different conditions. The results indicate that the plate type reflector and broken line type reflector increase the heat collection by 27.92 % and 34.4 %, respectively. So the reflector can make the collector effectively operate in a wider range of ambient temperatures and radiation intensity. Increasing the horizontal length of the collector or adopting a series arrangement can effectively reduce reflection losses. This study provides theoretical guidance for the optimization design of flat-plate collectors with bottom-mounted broken line type reflectors.

Mechanical and broadband absorption properties of Nextel 610/SiOC composites synergistically enhanced by the interfacial structure design

In this work, BN interphase and Si3N4 matrix were prepared by chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) to optimize the mechanical properties of N610/SiOC composites, and the strengthening and toughening mechanisms were investigated. The results showed that the content and distribution of Si3N4 matrix and the thickness of BN interphase could tailor the strength and toughness of composites simultaneously. The optimal tensile strength of 234 MPa and flexural strength of 338 MPa were obtained by Si3N4 reinforced N610/SiOC composites with a BN interphase thickness of 540 nm, respectively. Meanwhile, free carbon modified BN interphase (BN(C)) and multi-layer “mortise and tenon” joint were designed to optimize the broadband EMW absorption. The impedance-matching “mortise and tenon” joint achieved a wide effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 8.4 GHz and a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −52.55 dB. This work inspires designing and fabricating CMC with both good mechanical and broadband EMW absorption properties.