Recent advances and perspectives of metal-organic framework-based microwave absorption materials

The rapid deployment and popularization of 5G technology have rendered electromagnetic pollution and interference increasingly severe, sparking an urgent imperative for high-performance microwave absorption materials (MAMs) in electromagnetic protection and stealth technologies. By virtue of their superior porosity, large specific surface area, and precisely modulable component structures, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are emerging as advanced precursor materials for the fabrication of high-performance MAMs. This review classifies MOF-based absorbers into mono-metallic, bi-metallic, and multi-metallic categories based on the number of metal nodes and systematically summarizes their research progress. We begin by elaborating on the fundamental absorption mechanisms (dielectric, magnetic, and polarization loss), the radar cross-section (RCS) evaluation model, and the theory related to mean squared refractive index (μԑ_p). We then survey synthetic routes including exfoliation, heterojunction engineering, and functional modification, clarifying the structure-performance relationship between microstructures and electromagnetic properties. Mono-metallic MOFs realize efficient attenuation through magneto-dielectric synergy; bi-metallic systems tailor relative permittivity (ε_r) and permeability (μ_r); multi-metallic architectures enhance impedance matching and integrated loss. Finally, we discuss the current bottlenecks in scalable fabrication and long-term environmental stability and highlight prospective research directions. This review offers technical guidance for the rational design of high-performance, lightweight, and eco-friendly MOF-based MAMs, facilitating their real-world engineering applications.