Advancements in Microwave Absorption Motivated by Interdisciplinary Research

Abstract

Microwave absorption materials (MAMs) were originally developed for military purposes, but have since evolved into versatile materials with promising applications in modern technologies, including household use. Despite significant progress in bench‐side research over the past decade, MAMs remain limited in their scope and have yet to be widely adopted. This review explores the history of MAMs from first‐generation coatings to second‐generation functional absorbers, identifies bottlenecks hindering their maturation. It also presents potential solutions such as exploring broader spatial scales, advanced characterization, introducing liquid media, utilizing novel toolbox (machine learning), and proximity of lab to end‐user. Additionally, it meticulously presents compelling applications of MAMs in medicine, mechanics, energy, optics, and sensing, which go beyond absorption efficiency, along with their current development status and prospects. This interdisciplinary research direction differs from previous research which primarily focused on meeting traditional requirements (i. e., thin, lightweight, wide, and strong), and can be defined as the next generation of smart absorbers. Ultimately, the effective utilization of ubiquitous electromagnetic waves, aided by third‐generation MAMs, should be better aligned with future expectations.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved

A Novel Low-Density-Biomass-Carbon Composite Coated with Carpet-like and Dandelion-Shaped Rare-Earth-Doped Cobalt Ferrite for Enhanced Microwave Absorption

“…This requires the establishment of an optimal impedance match between the absorber and the surrounding free space. The effect of impedance matching is usually evaluated using the parameter Z (Equal to 1 in ideal matching), which can be obtained by converting Equation (5) from Equation (2).…”

Freeze-Cast Ni-MOF Nanobelts/Chitosan-Derived Magnetic Carbon Aerogels for Broadband Electromagnetic Wave Absorption

“…With the proliferation of electronic devices, high-performance microwave absorption materials (MAMs) have become increasingly important for mitigating excessive electromagnetic (EM) energy. − The lightweight nature of MAMs is critical for their application. Aerogels, known as some of the lightest solid materials, are typically made from functional building blocks such as graphene oxide, , MXene, , or dielectric nanomaterials. , These materials boast advantages such as wide absorption bandwidths and effective absorption. , Notably, macro-porous structures endow aerogels with high porosity and a large specific surface area, promoting multiple internal scattering and EM-current induction, thereby enabling efficient EM-wave absorption. , Additionally, connected pore walls form conductive pathways that enhance conductivity, leading to increased impedance mismatches and conductive losses .…”

Polymer-derived silicon oxycarbonitride bowls with hollow structures and hetero-nanodomains for electromagnetic wave absorption

“…Electromagnetic functional materials, capable of converting electromagnetic energy into thermal or electrical energy, are experiencing rapid growth in the era of fifth generation mobile communication technology (5G) to address the detrimental effects of electromagnetism on electronic equipment and military security. [1][2][3][4] Polymer-derived ceramics (PDCs) are considered as competitive materials for electromagnetic wave absorption, enjoying advantages such as adaptable precursor structure design, multiple heterogeneous interfaces between transparent and absorption phases, and chemical stability. [5][6][7][8][9][10] However, the microwave absorption performance of PDCs is often hindered by the limited heterogeneous phases produced at low pyrolytic temperatures, and suboptimal impedance matching characteristics between air and PDCs.…”