EMI Shielding Effectiveness Study for Innovative Carbon Nanotube Materials in the 5G Frequency Region

Abstract

It is crucial to extend the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) studies to the new frequency regions where modern telecommunication systems operate, specifically those related to the fifth-generation (5G) technology standard for broadband cellular networks. Electric autonomous vehicles (EAVs) are systems that feature 5G technology on board and for which it is essential to ensure the proper management of EMC to prevent malfunctions. Given the considerable development of the EAV-related sector, new materials and solutions for EMI shielding with properties that reduce interference in the frequency regions of 5G technology are being investigated. Today, meatal-based solutions are the most common EMI shielding materials used to mitigate EMC problems. Nevertheless, with the appearance of EAVs, it is needed the design of novel materials that provide a significant balance in terms of shielding effectiveness (SE) and mechanical properties. Thereby, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are an attractive alternative to conventional EMI shielding materials due to their characteristics. The lightweight condition, flexibility, cost-effectiveness, easy processing, and resistance to corrosion made this new type of material perfect to be used in the field of EAVs. This contribution focuses on describing and characterizing three nanocomposite materials manufactured by loading a polymer matrix with 5%, 7%, and 10% CNT concentrations, respectively. The SE measurement is carried out with a coaxial sample holder based on the standard ASTM D4935-18. This measurement setup makes it possible to determine the performance of the three materials under test up to 18 GHz, covering part of the operation frequencies of 5G systems.