Hierarchically Integrated RGO/CNT Aerogel and Graphene Film in Aramid Honeycomb for Synergistic Microwave Absorption and Thermal Management
Jialei Mao, Li Cui, Yang Cui, Yanyan Li, Yaru Yang, Xinggang Du, Guangjie Lin, Peng He, Guqiao Ding, Gang Wang, Jun Chen, Haolong ZhengABSTRACT
The development of multifunctional composites that combine microwave absorption (MA) with effective thermal management in lightweight structural materials is essential for electronic systems. However, achieving this integration presents significant challenges due to the conflicting demands of electromagnetic attenuation, heat dissipation, and mechanical integrity. Herein, a multifunctional composite material incorporates a reduced graphene oxide/carbon nanotube (RGO/CNT) aerogel within a perforated aramid honeycomb structure was presented, enhanced by a highly thermally conductive graphene film (GF) on its lower surface. The honeycomb facilitates multiple reflections and scattering of electromagnetic waves, while the perforated walls enable a continuous 3D conductive network across adjacent cells. Meanwhile, the interconnected RGO/CNT framework contributes to a high density of heterogeneous interfaces and conductive pathways, which collectively enhance electromagnetic attenuation, with conduction loss acting as the dominant mechanism supplemented by polarization loss. This results in a minimum reflection loss of –63.91 dB alongside an absorption bandwidth of 6.12 GHz. The GF demonstrates an in‐plane thermal conductivity of 1550 W m −1 K −1 , promoting rapid heat spreading and achieving a 25% reduction in the surface temperature gradient. This work offers a strategic approach to creating multifunctional composites that realize microwave absorption, thermal management, and structural reinforcement concurrently.