Overcoming the Compatibility Challenge With a Biomimetic Mandala Heterostructure for Cross-Spectrum Electromagnetic...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Aerospace Engineering

Background:

• Integrating electromagnetic wave absorption and de-icing is crucial for aerospace.
• Conflicting material properties (conductivity vs. impedance matching) hinder simultaneous functionality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a multifunctional material overcoming the compatibility challenge between electromagnetic wave absorption and electrothermal de-icing.
• To develop a bionic mandala-like heterostructure for enhanced performance in both applications.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of MOF-derived NiCo2O4/CoO@C composites.
• Construction of a hierarchical conductive network within a biomimetic mandala heterostructure.
• Characterization of electromagnetic wave absorption and electrothermal de-icing performance.

Main Results:

• Achieved full-band effective microwave absorption (RL < -10 dB) from 2-18 GHz.
• Demonstrated a record 6.36 GHz strong absorption bandwidth (RL < -20 dB).
• Exhibited excellent broadband terahertz absorption and rapid electrothermal response for de-icing.

Conclusions:

• The bionic mandala heterostructure successfully integrates broadband electromagnetic wave absorption and efficient de-icing.
• This design strategy overcomes the inherent material property conflicts.
• The developed material offers a promising solution for multifunctional aerospace applications.