Comprehensive experimental and numerical evaluation of CNT-PPy nanocomposites for efficient EMI shielding in C-band

Abstract

This work studies the synthesis of multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) filler nanocomposites by employing a novel ultrasonic dual mixing technique to improve the effectiveness of electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding. The MWCNT fillers were incorporated into the polypyrrole (PPy) matrix phase to prepare the MWCNT/PPy nanocomposites. The MWCNT/PPy nanocomposite was prepared using in-situ polymerization of pyrrole monomer mixed with MWCNT filler. The ultrasonic dual mixing technique was used to uniformly distribute MWCNT fillers in the PPy. This investigation is performed in the C-band region within the 5.37–8.2 GHz microwave frequency range. Moreover, the electrical properties such as electrical conductivity, permeability, and permittivity are also investigated. The electrical conductivity (EC) of the MWCNT/PPy nanocomposites was significantly enhanced by 44.78 S/cm due to the high conductivity of the MWCNTs, resulting in a remarkable EMI SE of above 87 dB at a 5% loading of MWCNTs. Numerical simulations were also conducted in addition to experimental work to gain a better understanding of the shielding mechanism of MWCNT/PPy nanocomposites. The numerical outcomes were in agreement with the experimental analysis. Furthermore, it was observed that the attenuation of electromagnetic waves is mainly based on the absorbance of electromagnetic waves. Highlights: EMI shielding properties of CNT-PPy nanocomposites were studied. Experimental and numerical evaluation was conducted in C-band. Electrical conductivity, permeability, and permittivity are also investigated. Electrical conductivity of the nanocomposite was enhanced by 44.78 S/cm. A remarkable EMI SE of above 87 dB at a 5% loading of CNTs was observed.