MXene-ternary chalcogenide synergy: Ti3C2/FeIn2S4-carbon cloth composite for high-performance EMI shielding

This study presents a novel Ti 3 C 2 /FeIn 2 S 4 composite integrated onto carbon cloth for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications. The composite demonstrated exceptional reflective properties, with reflection coefficient (R) values ranging from 0.9 (maximum) to approximately 0.8 (minimum). With a thickness of only 0.3 mm, it achieves electromagnetic interference shielding efficiency (EMI SE) of 45 dB in the X-band (8–12.4 GHz) and 41 dB in the Ka-band (26.5–40.0 GHz) demonstrating its superior capacity to attenuate electromagnetic waves across both frequency bands. The composite was synthesized using the vacuum filtration technique, and its EMI shielding performance was evaluated using a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). The optical properties of both materials are computed using Density Functional Theory (DFT). While most previous research has primarily focused on EMI shielding in the X-band, our composite offers substantial enhancement by providing shielding across both the X and Ka bands. This development broadens the scope for broadband EMI shielding materials, with promising applications in telecommunications, electronic devices, and stealth technologies. • The novel Ti 3 C 2 /FeIn 2 S 4 composite integrated onto carbon cloth represents a groundbreaking combination of MXene and ternary chalcogenide materials. • Achieves exceptional reflection-dominated attenuation with shielding effectiveness of 0.9 in the X-band (8.2-12.4 GHz) and 0.8-0.9 in the Ka-band (26.5-40 GHz). • Demonstrates effective EMI shielding across both X-band and Ka-band frequency ranges, addressing a critical gap in existing research. • The composite is incorporated onto flexible carbon cloth, providing practical applications for next-generation electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) solutions. • A simple and scalable preparation method for the Ti 3 C 2 /FeIn 2 S 4 composite coatings is developed, enabling broader applicability. • Detailed investigation of the reflection mechanism contributing to the material’s exceptional EMI shielding efficiency.