Robust graphene-drum bridged carbon aerogels for broadband acoustic and electromagnetic attenuation

Abstract

The rapid growth of wireless technologies and urban development has led to a concerning increase in acoustic and electromagnetic pollution. Herein, we have developed robust graphene-drum bridged carbon aerogels (Gd-CAs) as a solution for broadband dual-wave attenuation. The Gd-CAs demonstrate exceptional properties including light weight, high robustness (150 kPa at 80% compression strain), and excellent compression fatigue resistance (1000 cycles at 50% strain). The interconnected graphene-drums within the carbon truss structures facilitate synergistic dissipation of acoustic energy, leading to excellent acoustic absorption across a broad frequency range with a noise reduction coefficient of 0.59. The binary 3D conductive drum and strut pathways in Gd-CAs provide an enhanced dielectric loss pathway, resulting in an effective attenuation bandwidth of 8.2 GHz, making Gd-CAs superior candidates for broadband electromagnetic wave attenuators. Moreover, Gd-CAs have multiple functions such as waterproofing, nonflammability, thermal insulation, and strain-sensing, thereby enhancing their suitability for diverse practical applications. The proposed graphene-drum bridged carbon aerogels provide a compelling strategy to address the pressing need to mitigate electromagnetic and acoustic pollution in various applications.