Hierarchical configuration design of PAN/Gr@MWCNTs composite film with superior electromagnetic shielding and excellent Joule heating via in-situ sedimentation strategy

Abstract

With the rapid development of 5G communication technology, the surge in the number of antenna modules for intelligent terminal equipment has led to the intensification of electromagnetic radiation and interference problems, posing a major threat to electronic equipment safety, information systems stability, and human health. Traditional electromagnetic shielding materials have made it difficult to meet the demand for intelligent, integrated electronics. In this study, we proposed an in-situ sedimentation strategy to fabricate flexible polyacrylonitrile/graphene@multi-walled carbon nanotubes (PAN/Gr@MWCNTs) composite film with hierarchical double-layered structures, thus realizing ultra-thin, highly conductive, and excellent electromagnetic shielding and Joule heating properties. Particularly, the as-formed hierarchical film possessed an ultra-thin thickness of 0.158 mm and a high conductivity of 1660.26 S/m, simultaneously accompanied by an electromagnetic interference shielding efficiency (EMI SE) of 42.82 dB and a specific shielding efficiency (SSE) of 271.01 dB/mm. In addition, the film exhibited excellent Joule heating capability in the voltage range of 1.50-2.25 V. This study provides innovative ideas for developing flexible electromagnetic shielding films, which are of great scientific significance and potential application in electromagnetic radiation protection.