Polymer based Composites for Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Shielding: The Role of Magnetic Fillers in Effective Attenuation of Microwaves, a Review

The global development of electronic systems and telecommunications has triggered the major concerns regarding Electromagnetic (EM) pollution. Motivated by the environmental apprehensions and by diverse applications, the quest for functional materials with high efficiency to mitigate Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) pollution is at the forefront of mainstream field of research. Admired by their fascinating characteristics such as lightweight, high mechanical strength, anti-corrosion and, good chemical stability, polymeric based composite materials display robust potential in EMI shielding and have garnered immense attention in recent times. In this comprehensive review article, recent advances in the design of polymers based composite materials for EMI shielding applications are emphasized in detail. The basic theory as well as mechanism underlying the EMI shielding and the related factors influencing the same are discussed. This review article also provides detailed insight into current novel materials based on polymer composites and recent trends in the advancement of various magnetic filler materials with their effects on electromagnetic interference shielding. First, various parameters such as permeability, thickness, mass ratio etc., are outlined. Then, the comprehensive description of the various magnetic materials in polymer composites to understand the EMI properties are discussed. Further, viewpoints on the recently emerged magnetic fillers in conducting and non-conducting polymer matrix and their role in effective attenuation of microwaves are presented. Finally, the main challenges and prospects of polymer composites and novel conducting fillers are highlighted to broaden the applications.