Controllable synthesis and enhanced microwave absorption properties of silane-modified Ni0.4Zn0.4Co0.2Fe2O4 nanocomposites covered with reduced graphene oxide

For the first time, silane coupling agent modified Ni0.4Zn0.4Co0.2Fe2O4 ferrite covered with reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites were synthesized by a simple, efficient and controllable three-step method. The structural characteristics were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectra, X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, thermal gravity analysis, field-emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The results indicated that the coupling agent modified ferrite particles were firmly and uniformly covered on the rGO nanosheets. Microwave adsorption properties were also performed at room temperature in the frequency range of 2-18 GHz. The minimum reflection loss of rGO/APTS-NZCF composites can reach -51.8 dB at 15.1 GHz with the thickness of 2.1 mm, and the effective bandwidth corresponding to R-L less than -10 dB was 5.3 GHz (from 12.7 to 18 GHz). The excellent microwave adsorption properties indicate this novel composite could be used as a new candidate for lightweight electromagnetic wave adsorption material.