Dual-Functional Tailoring of Mechanical and Microwave-Absorbing Properties in SLS-Printed NFG/MZFO Composites via Epoxy/Silicon Impregnation

This study demonstrates that EP/Si impregnation is a novel and effective strategy for the customizable optimization of microwave absorption in SLS-manufactured NFG-MZFO composites, without compromising their enhanced mechanical integrity. By simply varying the silicon content in a single post-impregnation step, the electromagnetic performance can be selectively tailored. A high Si content (1.5 wt.%, Q-3) optimizes mechanical strength and peak absorption intensity (flexural strength of 7.26 MPa, RL of -48.25 dB), while a moderate Si content (0.5 wt.%, Q-1) maximizes the absorption bandwidth (EAB of 2.95 GHz). This approach decouples the traditional compromise between achieving strong peak absorption and a broad effective bandwidth, providing a versatile and customizable pathway for designing lightweight, high-strength microwave absorbers for specific application requirements.