Multi-interface PA6/PS composites constructed of metal-carbon material for adjustable electromagnetic interference shielding

Abstract

The proliferation of electromagnetic waves makes people's requirements for electromagnetic shielding materials higher, and the shielding materials with tunable functions are particularly precious. In this work, an efficient electromagnetic shielding composite with multiple interfaces was prepared by compositing nylon microspheres with nickel (Ni) particles deposited on the surface (PA6@NiM) and PS dispersed with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT). PA6@NiM microspheres were used to optimize the conductive path of MWCNT and provide multiple reflections to improve the electromagnetic shielding performance of the material. By controlling the content of PA6@Ni microspheres and MWCNTs, the electromagnetic shielding and absorption efficiency of the composites can be regulated to meet the needs of different scenarios. The results show that the SE T of the PS composite system containing 10 wt% PA6@NiM and 7 wt% MWCNT can reach 46.9 dB under this design. The total electromagnetic shielding efficiency (SE T ) is much higher than pure PA6@NiM2 and 7 wt% MWCNT/PS composites (34.2 dB and 30.26 dB, respectively). The results indicate that PA6@NiM increases the multiple scattering at the interface, the interaction between the Ni layer and MWCNT, and the numerous reflection inside PA6@NiM, which improves the microwave shielding performance the composites. This study will provide a new design idea and method for high-performance electromagnetic shielding composites. • Highly conductive PA6@Ni magnetic beads are successfully obtained by electroplating. • Metallized microspheres provide a template that increases the interface inside the composite material causing multiple reflections and scattering. • Nickel Metal works with MWCNT to improve the electromagnetic shielding efficiency of composites up to 46.9 dB.