Layered 3D structure derived from MXene/magnetic carbon nanotubes for ultra-broadband electromagnetic wave absorption

The widespread use of communication equipment has exacerbated the deterioration of the electromagnetic environment, urgently requiring the development of more efficient electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption materials. Two-dimensional metal carbides are highly regarded for their characteristic structure and excellent electrical conductivity. Here, to break the single way of designing Ti3C2Tx MXene composites and to compensate for their lack of magnetic loss capability, an attempt was made to prepare composites with magnetic NiCo/Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) modification to achieve EMW absorption. Such CNTs-encapsulated Ni and Co metal particles anchored in the matrix, coupled with a multilayer laminate structure, enable the composite to have enhanced EMW absorption. Remarkably, the NiCo/TiC/TiO/CNTs composites exhibit excellent EMW absorption performance at a filling level of only 14.2 wt%. The minimum reflection loss (RL) of-51.98 dB and the maximum effective absorption bandwidth of 7.76 GHz were obtained at thicknesses of 1.9 mm and 2.1 mm, respectively. In addition to this, the possible mechanisms involved in EMW absorption have been elucidated in detail. These results demonstrate an environmentally friendly and simple strategy for the preparation of EMW absorbers based on Ti3C2Tx MXene substrate.