Investigation of Ku band microwave absorption of three-layer BaFe12O19, carbon-fiber@Fe3O4, and graphene@BaFe12O19@Fe3O4 composite

Abstract This paper reported the microwave absorption properties of BaFe12O19, carbon-fiber@Fe3O4 composite, and graphene@BaFe12O19@Fe3O4 composite. The prepared samples showed no impurity or any secondary phase during the XRD analysis. The morphology of the samples has indicated the successful arrangement of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles on the carbon fiber, which created pores thereby enhancing the absorption of microwaves. Similarly, the BaFe12O19 and Fe3O4 were also efficiently decorated on the surface of the graphene sheets. The presence of non-magnetic carbon fiber and graphene causes a significant reduction in coercivity while maintaining reasonable saturation and remnant magnetization, thereby improving the microwave absorption capability of the prepared composites. The B/C/A combination with 5 wt% filler loading offers better microwave absorption capabilities in all thickness variations with RL max having value greater than −10 dB. Additionally, an increase in filler loading to 15 wt% for the B/C/A combination resulted in an increase in RL max to − 40 dB. The studies have demonstrated the synergic effect of the various components of the composites for efficient tuning of microwave absorption capabilities and the possibility of using the B/C/A combination for technological application.