Abstract
Ultrathin, broadband microwave absorbing materials (MAMs) are crucial for weight-sensitive and space-constrained applications. This study introduces the electromagnetic frequency dispersion coefficient (EFDC), a synergistic dielectric-magnetic parameter that moves beyond conventional complex mechanisms. Our model directly links EFDC to microwave absorption (MA) performance, guiding the design of advanced MAMs. By optimizing EFDC, we achieved an ultra-wide effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 7.04 GHz at 1 mm and 9.28 GHz at 1.3 mm. Moreover, the temperature invariance of EFDC ensures consistent MA performance from 298 K to 473 K, despite the differing thermal responses of permittivity and permeability. This principle outlines a systematic design strategy for fabricating ultrathin and broadband MAMs, establishing a robust framework for developing high-attenuation absorbers suitable for complex frequency and thermal environments.
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Acknowledgements
This work is financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 22475065) (C.H.G.) and (No. 22305066) (C.P.L.).
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J.W.Z. and C.H.G. gave the research direction and contributed the basic framework and feasible technical route of the project. H.X.S. and Y.Z. conceived the idea, carried out the theoretical analysis and numerical simulations. H.X.S., Y.Z., M.L., and Z.H.C. built up the system and performed the experimental measurements. H.X.S. and C.P.L. performed the data analysis. J.W.Z. and C.H.G. provided the standard experimental site and equipment. H.X.S., C.P.L., and C.H.G. wrote the manuscript. All authors discussed the theoretical aspects and numerical simulations, interpreted the results, and reviewed the manuscript.
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Si, H., Zhang, Y., Li, M. et al. A synergistic design model for ultrathin broadband microwave absorbers using electromagnetic frequency dispersion coefficients. Nat Commun (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-69591-x
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-69591-x
