Hierarchical structures of carbon nanotubes anchored on core-sheath microrads toward electromagnetic wave absorption and shielding with Joule heating and superhydrophobic capacities

Hierarchical structures with synergistic dielectric-magnetic compositions are highly desired for electromagnetic wave absorption and interference shielding applications. Fabricating lightweight and high-performance electromagnetic protection composites with additional functions are demanded to suppress severe electromagnetic radiation and interference pollution. Herein, a unique three-dimensional hierarchical structure consisting of 1D multi-walled carbon nanotubes anchored on 1D MXene@CF core-sheath microrods are rationally proposed via electrostatic self-assembly and hydrothermal strategy as well as subsequent thermal-catalysis treatment. The multi-walled carbon nanotubes encapsulated with magnetic CoNi nanoparticles are immobilized onto core-sheath microrods matrix, constructing effective 1D/1D electron migration bridges and the uniformly dispersed magnetic component to facilitate magnetic coupling effect. Consequently, profiting from the optimized impedance matching, enhanced conduction loss , dielectric polarization, and magnetic loss, the as-prepared sample shows an outstanding absorption capacity with reflection loss value of −56.8 dB and X-band full absorption. When used as electromagnetic shielding materials , the composites exhibit exceptional electromagnetic interference shielding properties. In addition, the upgraded mechanical strength , remarkable voltage-driven Joule heating and superhydrophobic properties endow the absorbers with multi-scenario adaptability and long life-time applications. This work provides well-designed hierarchical structures for high-performance electromagnetic absorbing and shielding with the great prospect of multifunctional applications.