| Abstract Scope |
MXenes, two-dimensional transition metal carbides and nitrides, are premier materials for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and microwave absorption. Their high metallic conductivity, large surface area, and tunable chemistry enable efficient wave interaction via ohmic losses and surface dipoles. Unlike bulk metals, MXenes provide lightweight, flexible, printable solutions for electronic protection and radar attenuation. However, precise surface modification is essential to prevent oxidation, provide compatibility for polymer composites, and tune electronic properties for optimal impedance matching. We present a unified modification strategy that allows MXenes to function as either EMI shields or microwave absorbers. By tailoring the nanofiller content and spatial distribution in a composite, the same chemical treatment can be steered toward reflection or absorption. This shows how architectural control dictates the dominant mechanism. |