Effect of Ti3SiC2 addition on microwave absorption property of Ti3SiC2/cordierite coatings

Ti3SiC2/cordierite (MAS) composite coatings with different Ti3SiC2 concentrations were prepared via atmosphere plasma spraying (APS) method. The characteristics of the Ti3SiC2/MAS powders and as-sprayed coatings, such as microstructure, and phase constitution, were observed and measured. The effect of the Ti3SiC2 addition on the electromagnetic shielding, dielectric, and microwave absorption properties of Ti3SiC2/MAS coatings in the frequency of 8.2-12.4 GHz was measured and discussed. The addition of Ti3SiC2 can significantly improve the electromagnetic shielding and complex permittivity of the coatings, which can be ascribed to the enhanced polarization effect and electrical conductivity. When the Ti3SiC2 content increases to 30 wt.%, the coating shows an excellent microwave absorption property, and the effective absorption bandwidth (<=-5 dB) can be obtained across the whole measured frequency with a thickness of 1.8 mm. Further increase in Ti3SiC2 content led to high permittivity, which is harmful to the impedance match and results in strong reflection and weak absorption. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.