Constructing Ti₃C₂T_x–MXene-based gradient woodpile structure by direct ink writing 3D printing for efficient microwave absorption

As a novel 2D material, Ti₃C₂T_x–MXene has become a major area of interest in the field of microwave absorption (MA). However, the MA effect of common Ti₃C₂T_x–MXene is not prominent and often requires complex processes or combinations of other materials to achieve enhanced performance. In this context, a kind of gradient woodpile structure using common Ti₃C₂T_x–MXene as MA material was designed and manufactured through direct ink writing (DIW) 3D printing. The minimum reflection loss (RL_min) of the Ti₃C₂T_x–MXene-based gradient woodpile structures with a thickness of less than 3 mm can reach −70 dB, showing considerable improvement compared with that of a completely filled structure. In addition, the effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) reaches 7.73 GHz. This study demonstrates that a Ti₃C₂T_x–MXene material with excellent MA performance and tunable frequency band can be successfully fabricated with a macroscopic structural design and through DIW 3D printing without complex material hybridization and modification, offering broad application prospects by reducing electromagnetic wave radiation and interference.