Cationic hybridization produces core–shell structure MOF derivatives for reducing electromagnetic pollution.

[Display omitted] • Core-shell structured MOF derivatives with ideal heterogeneous interfaces were successfully synthesized. • The effective absorption bandwidth of MD-2 is 6.97 GHz and the minimum reflection loss is −75.61 dB. • We compare the electromagnetic synergistic loss mechanism to the "sun" and other loss mechanisms to "planets" revolving around a "star", and provide a vivid and systematic description of the microwave absorption mechanism of MOF derivatives. Microstructure design and genetic modification with metal–organic frameworks is one of the key strategies for combating electromagnetic pollution, albeit it continues to face constraints. Since inappropriate parameter selection during microstructure modification is extremely likely to result in pore collapse, metal agglomeration and other issues. Herein, we propose an efficient cation hybridization strategy where we etch the precursor MIL-53 by different etching concentrations and anneal it at various temperatures. Ultimately, light and efficient MOFs-derived microwave absorption materials are obtained. Notably, the magnetic heterogeneous atoms introduced by the cationic hybridization reaction not only provide perfect heterogeneous interfaces but improve the electromagnetic synergistic effect. Benefiting from the optimized impedance matching provided by electric–magnetic synergistic loss mechanism and the polarization effect generated by a large number of heterogeneous interfaces and defects, the MD-2 has shown ultra-high electromagnetic parameters and excellent microwave absorption performance with a qualified absorption bandwidth of 6.97 GHz (2.36 mm) and a minimum reflection loss of −75.61 dB. In addition to broadening the permittivity-magnetic synergistic mechanism of microwave absorption materials under the morphology-property relationship, the general approach inspired by this strategy also lays a solid foundation for the EMW absorption of artificial intelligence microdevices in the 5G era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]