Enhancing microwave absorption performance of MoS₂ by synergistic effect of Fe-doping

Due to its unique two-dimensional structure and tunable electronic properties, MoS₂ has emerged as a promising electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbing material, extensively combined with various other substances to construct effective EMW absorbers. However, research on cation substitution doping in MoS₂ remains relatively limited, which impedes the design and development of high-performance MoS₂-based EMW absorbing materials. In this study, MoS₂ was synthesized with varying concentrations of Fe doping using a facile hydrothermal method. We thoroughly investigated the effects of Fe doping, which induced lattice distortion and collapse, triggered a 1T-2H phase transition, and led to the formation and evolution of second phases. The modulation of phase transitions, coupled with doping-induced lattice defects that enhance polarization and interfacial polarization from second phases, enabled the Fe-doped MoS₂ samples to exhibit remarkable EMW absorption performance. Notably, the FM3 sample achieved an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 5.1 GHz and a minimum reflection loss (RL_min) of -60.6 dB, underscoring the critical role of Fe doping in boosting EMW absorption capabilities. This research provides valuable pathways and unique insights for the advancement of TMDs as high performance EMW absorbing materials.