Graphene with multiscale synergistic optimization: achieving superior cross-band electromagnetic wave absorption performance

Abstract

The development of multi-band compatible absorbing materials is crucial for protecting against complex and dynamic electromagnetic environments in the future. However, traditional coating-based approaches have limitations in achieving cross-frequency band absorption. In this study, a graphene-based absorber was prepared using a simplified thermal reduction method, and a flexible liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) was used as the resin matrix. By employing digital light processing (DLP) printing technology, a double-layer honeycomb structure absorber was designed and fabricated, demonstrating compatibility for absorption in both microwave and terahertz frequency bands. With a total thickness of 2 mm, the absorber achieved a minimum reflection loss (RL_min) of −59.2 dB and an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 4.53 GHz within the microwave frequency range (2–18 GHz). In the terahertz frequency range (0.3–1.2 THz), RL was below −35 dB, with an average absorption rate of 99.95%. These results highlight the potential of the integrated material-structure-function approach in developing cross-frequency band absorbers, providing a promising solution for future multi-frequency electromagnetic pollution.