Abstract:

The application of MXene in the electromagnetic wave absorption (EWA) field has been increasingly extensive. To explore the potential of more MXene types, this study has successfully synthesized Ta₂CT_x MXene via HF etching and subsequently prepared a series of Ta₂CT_x MXene/CuInS₂ composites using a microwave-assisted chemical synthesis system. The Ta₂CT_x sample has demonstrated an optimal minimum reflection loss (RL_min) of −27.61 dB with an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 0.8 GHz at a thin thickness of 2.9 mm and a 50 wt% filler loading. In contrast, the Ta₂CT_x MXene/CuInS₂-50 composite has exhibited a significantly superior EAB of 4.48 GHz at a thinner thickness of 1.5 mm under the same filler loading condition. This enhanced performance has been attributed to the improved impedance matching and increased dielectric loss contributed by the incorporation of CuInS₂. Furthermore, the multilayered sheet-like structure formed by the two components has established a continuous conductive network, which has effectively dissipated electromagnetic energy through multiple reflections and conductive loss. Ultimately, this work has provided a viable strategy for developing high-efficiency absorbers based on Ta₂CT_x MXene materials.

Key words: Ta₂CT_x MXene, CuInS₂, Electromagnetic wave absorption, Radar cross section, Composite Materials