Multilayered gradient Ti₂AlC_0.5N_0.5 prepared by crystal/amorphous C diffusion for efficient electromagnetic...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Electromagnetics

Background:

• Surface/interface engineering is crucial for high-performance electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption materials.
• Developing advanced EMW absorbers requires novel material design strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a universal microwave molten salt carbon diffusion control strategy for EMW absorption.
• To engineer three-dimensional multilayered gradient core-shell structures for enhanced EMW loss.

Main Methods:

• Utilized microwave molten salt carbon diffusion for surface/interface engineering.
• Promoted amorphous transformation and carbon diffusion on carbon fiber surfaces.
• Formed Ti2AlC0.5N0.5 MAX-based gradient core-shell structures.

Main Results:

• Achieved efficient reflection loss of -83.4 dB at 1.9 mm thickness.
• Demonstrated effective isolation of internal radiant heat.
• Created unique structures with cavities for incident and multiple EMW losses.

Conclusions:

• The developed strategy offers a universal approach for modulating multilayered gradient structures in MAX phase ceramics.
• The resulting material (TACN-1) shows significant potential for stealth applications due to its EMW absorption and thermal insulation properties.
• This work advances diffusion-controlled surface/interface engineering for advanced material development.