Shielding effectiveness of polymer blended carbon fiber nanofiller composite

Electromagnetic shielding (ES) is an important aspect in selecting the material for designing of highly sensitive electronic devices controlled by radio frequency wave due to electromagnetic interference (EMI). Due to intense interaction of high frequency wave with the shielding material, the design of material with suitable impregnation of impurity influences the shielding mechanism. In the present investigation EMI shielding performance and electromagnetic absorption characteristics of epoxy blended graphene impregnated carbon fiber composite (EPCF@1%GN) has been intensively studied. The surface morphology of the sample EPCF@1%GN has been studied through Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) which provides the morphological facilitation to enhance the shielding effects of the fabricated material. The computation of shielding parameters indicates that the reference composite without graphene demonstrates the lowest total shielding effectiveness. In contrast, composites with graphene content exhibit significantly improved in EMI shielding performance about 20 dB for EPCF@1%GN, with nearly 70% more than for epoxy blended carbon fiber composite (EPCF) which may contributed due to enhanced absorption capability of the material designed. Additionally, the thermal tolerance has been analyzed through Thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA). Composites with graphene content displayed varying porosity characteristics, which may influence their electromagnetic properties highlighting shielding mechanism for microwave absorption. The significance of this study addresses the critical need for effective electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials, particularly for applications in electronic devices, aerospace, and defense sectors. Traditional metal-based shielding materials, while effective, suffer from limitations such as weight and corrosion. This research explores a lightweight, polymer-based composite, offering a high-performance alternative with superior microwave absorption capabilities. The work highlights the transformation of EPCF@1%GN composite from reflection-dominated to absorption-driven shielding behaviour. The excellent thermal stability up to 625°C and enhanced dielectric losses, interfacial polarization, and improved impedance matching make this composite highly suitable for EMI shielding in advanced applications.