Enhancing electromagnetic wave absorption in carbon fiber using FeS2 nanoparticles

Carbon-based electromagnetic wave absorbing materials (absorbers) adhered with metallic sulfide nanoparticles of good electrical conductivity attract increasing researchers’ attention. In this study, on the basis of carbon fiber (Cf)@Fe3O4 nanocomposites obtained by the electrostatic spinning and reflow method, Cf@FeS2 nanocomposite was successfully prepared during a further hydrothermal process. The products exhibit excellent electromagnetic wave absorption performances with a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −54.11 dB at 2.13 mm matching thickness. At the same time, the optimal effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) value of 6.04 GHz at a thickness of 1.98 mm covers the whole Ku band, suggesting its excellent electromagnetic wave absorption performances. In addition, the interlaced network structure constructed by carbon fiber, outstanding conductivity of FeS2 nanoparticles, and interfacial polarization from hetero-structure play significant parts in enhancing the electromagnetic parameters and absorption performances. All these results suggest that the Cf@FeS2 nanocomposites can be taken as a new electromagnetic wave-absorbing material under their low density, simple craft, and strong absorption characteristics.