Dielectric modulation engineering in hierarchically ordered porous Ti₃C₂T_x MXene/rhenium disulfide aerogel toward potential electromagnetic wave absorption and infrared stealth

Adjusting the impedance of materials by modulating their electromagnetic parameters is an effective strategy for obtaining excellent electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption performance, but there are still challenges in developing high-performance electromagnetic wave (EMW)-absorbing materials. Herein, a dielectric modulation engineering strategy is proposed, and a lightweight 3D hierarchically ordered porous structure based on an MXene and ReS₂ (3D OPMRs) was fabricated through directional freeze-drying technology. The 3D nanoflower-like structure of ReS₂, which acts as a dielectric regulator factor, effectively controls the dielectric loss characteristics of the composites. The optimized 3D OPMR with a hierarchically ordered porous structure and a light weight (density as low as 0.04 g cm⁻³) exhibited excellent EMW absorption properties with minimal reflection loss and an effective absorption bandwidth of − 66.20 dB and 4.20 GHz, respectively. The excellent EMW absorption performances originate from the dipole and interfacial polarizations, adjustable conduction loss, and multiple internal reflections. Moreover, computer simulation results validate the attenuation effect of 3D OPMR on electromagnetic energy under real application conditions. Interestingly, the unique hierarchical pore structure endows 3D OPMR with excellent thermal resistance, which expands the application of EMW-absorbing materials in infrared stealth and harsh environments. Graphical Abstract: (Figure presented.).