Electromagnetic shielding behaviour of conductive filler composites and conductive fabrics – A review

Abstract

In this study, theory of EMI shielding and research conducted on textile fabrics to impart conductivity for attenuating the electromagnetic (EM) radiation by means of different techniques have been reviewed in detail. Shielding of the EM waves can be done by means of reflection, multiple reflection and absorption by the shield. Different metals with their alloys and polymeric materials are initially used as shielding materials with some limitations. However, the recent developments in conductive fabrics and composites replace the conventional shielding materials. The composites with better conductivity and light weight could be a promising barrier material for protecting electronic circuits from the EM radiation and mechanical damage. Materials with high absorption co-efficient could impart shielding effectiveness of 80 dB for the frequency of 18 GHz. This paper mainly focuses on the necessity of conductive textile fabric and composites used as hybrid electromagnetic shields.