Materials for electromagnetic interference shielding

Abstract

This is a non-exhaustive but comprehensive review of materials for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding. It covers functional and multifunctional structural shielding materials. The materials include metals, carbons, ceramics, cement, polymers, hybrids and composites. Metals and carbons are the main functional materials. Ceramics, cement and polymers are typically not very effective, unless they are combined with a functional material. Due to the availability of numerous types of microcarbons and nanocarbons, shielding materials in the form of metal-carbon, ceramic-carbon, cement-carbon and polymer-carbon combinations have received much attention. Continuous carbon fiber composites and cement-based materials are dominant among structural shielding materials. The principles of shielding materials design are covered, with consideration of the science base and material structure. The common pitfalls in shielding materials research are also addressed.