Novel one-dimensional polyaniline/Ni_0.5Zn_0.5Fe₂O₄ hybrid nanostructure: synthesis, magnetic, and electromagnetic wave absorption properties

For the first time, the novel one-dimensional uniform polyaniline (PANI)/Ni_0.5Zn_0.5Fe₂O₄ (NZFO) hybrid nanorods were synthesized by an in situ polymerization approach with the assistance of ultrasound and magnetic field. Owing to the unique shape, structure, and chemical composition, the as-synthesized hybrid nanorods with different PANI/NZFO mass ratios possess adjustable magnetic properties, high-saturated magnetization, and coercivity. In addition, these hybrid nanorods present stronger reflection loss and a wider absorption band than pure NZFO. Especially, the hybrid nanorods containing 59 wt% NZFO exhibit excellent microwave absorption properties, with a maximum reflection loss (R _L) of −27.5 dB observed at 6.2 GHz. And the widest absorption band (R _L ≤ −10 dB) is 8.1 GHz, corresponding to a matching thin thickness of 2 mm. It is superior to the previously reported value of PANI/ferrite. Therefore, these PANI/NZFO hybrid nanorods may be candidates for lightweight, low-cost, broadband, and highly efficient microwave-absorbing materials.