A Perspective of Tailoring Dielectric Genes for 2D Materials Toward Advanced Electromagnetic Functions

2D materials and their composites with electromagnetic properties are becoming increasingly popular. Obtaining insight into the nature of electromagnetic (EM) response manipulation is imperative to guide scientific research and technological exploitation at such a critical time. From this perspective, the dielectric genes of 2D material hybrids have been highlighted based on the recent literature. This endows an unlimited possibility of manipulating the EM response, even at elevated temperatures. The definitions and criteria of dielectric genes toward 2D material hybrids and composites are systematically clarified and summarized. The dielectric gene categories are successfully discriminated, including the conduction networks, intrinsic defects, impurity defects, and interfaces in the composite, and their temperature evolution is revealed in detail. More importantly, tuning strategies for microwave absorption, electromagnetic shielding effectiveness, and expanded electromagnetic functions are thoroughly discussed. Finally, significant predictions are provided for multispectral electromagnetic functions, and future applications of multifunctional exploration are anticipated. Dielectric genes will open an unexpected horizon for advanced functional materials in the coming 5G/6G age, providing a significant boost to promoting environmental electromagnetic protection, electromagnetic devices, and next-generation smart devices. Material genes dominate the electromagnetic properties of 2D materials. The genes encoding dielectric materials include polarization and conduction genes. Tailoring polarization and conduction genes is an effective strategy to construct effective electromagnetic materials by introducing new materials and microstructures, resembling "genetic engineering". The exploration of dielectric gene tailoring is promising for developing multispectral and multifunctional electromagnetic applications. image