Hydrothermal synthesis of micro-flower like morphology aluminum-doped MoS2/rGO nanohybrids for high efficient electromagnetic wave shielding materials

In this study, a three-dimensional (3D) micro-flower like morphology aluminum-doped molybdenum disulfide/ reduced graphene oxide (Al@MoS2/rGO) nanohybrids have been developed using a simple and sensitive hydrothermal approach. Their electromagnetic (EM) parameters (permittivity, permeability) and microwave shielding parameters (S-11, S-12) have been analyzed and reported for the first time in the microwave frequency range of 8.0-12.0 GHz. It is interesting to note that the electrical conductivity of the nanohybrids increases with the doping concentration of Al-ions, whereas skin-depth has a reverse trend. The 12% Al@MoS2/rGO nanohybrid shows a higher total electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) value about SET-33.38 dB, whereas undoped MoS2/rGO nanohybrid exhibits a lower value around-17.07 dB at the same thin thickness. The higher doping concentration of Al-ion creates lattice distortion and crystal defects with high charge carrier mobility between multiple interfaces and at defective sites. Hence, the Al-doping into MoS2 lattice supported on the rGO surface can greatly enhance EM wave absorption and EMI SE value. The present work suggests that the 12% Al@MoS2/rGO nanohybrid can be treated as a good microwave absorbing and shielding material and useful in various techno-commercial devices.

Automated summary

In this study, three-dimensional micro-flower like morphology Al@MoS2/rGO nanohybrids were synthesized using a hydrothermal approach. The electrical conductivity and electromagnetic wave absorption capability of the nanohybrids were enhanced with the doping of Al ions, leading to improved EMI SE values. This suggests that the Al@MoS2/rGO nanohybrids can serve as effective microwave absorbing and shielding materials for various technological applications.