Core-shell architectures: Tailoring the electromagnetic properties for enhanced absorption

Abstract

As wireless communication technology advances, the risks of electromagnetic (EM) pollution to both electrical infrastructure and human health are escalating. EM absorbers stand out as a superior solution for their ability to effectively absorb and attenuate EM waves. In the quest for optimal EM absorption capabilities, the innovative application of microstructural geometrical effects breathes fresh life into the evolution of EM absorbers. The incorporation of a core-shell structure markedly amplifies the performance of EM wave absorption by synergizing various mechanisms, including geometrical influences, interfacial polarization, electronic conduction, and the coupling of magnetic and dielectric properties. This review meticulously reviews the state-of-the-art in core-shell structured EM absorbing materials, highlighting materials such as metals, carbon, and high-entropy materials. Subsequently, the key strategies for performance tailoring such as material selection, crystal defects, and geometrical morphology are consequently introduced. Furthermore, the discussion culminates in a comprehensive overview of the core-shell structured EM absorbers, offering an in-depth analysis and a forward-looking perspective on their prospective applications in the future landscape of technology.