Regulation of interactions between MXenes and magnetic components for microwave absorption: From fundamentals to implementation

The widespread usage of contemporary communication and electronic devices has rendered electromagnetic radiation and interference prominent environmental concerns. This has prompted the design development of innovative high-efficiency microwave absorption materials (MAMs). MXene-based composites demonstrate potential in this domain owing to their superior intrinsic electromagnetic characteristics. By integrating magnetic nanomaterials, the resultant composites may establish a distinctive “magnetic-dielectric” dual-loss network via regulation of interaction between magnetic nanomaterials and MXenes. This network efficiently integrates the superior charge-transfer properties of MXenes with the magnetic loss processes of magnetic nanomaterials, which is fundamental to boosting microwave absorption performance. In the past few years, significant accomplishments have been achieved in this aspect. Herein, we intend to systematically summarize the theoretical foundations and recent advancements in magnetic nanomaterial-reinforced MXene MAMs. First, we evaluate the loss mechanisms at heterogeneous interfaces of magnetic MXene MAMs. Secondly, we classify and assess the construction methodologies and the interaction regulation strategies for various magnetic systems (comprising magnetic metals, magnetic alloys, magnetic oxides, and magnetic sulfides) on MXene substrates and their corresponding effects on enhancing microwave absorption. Finally, we present the principal challenges faced by contemporary preparation procedures and performance optimization and offer insights into future trends regarding multi-functional integration. This review attempts to provide systematic insights for the design of high-performance MXene-based MAMs and to suggest novel approaches for the technical advancement of electromagnetic protection materials.