The increasing use of wireless communication technologies has led to increasing electromagnetic pollution and the development of effective shielding materials. Knitted fabrics offer a flexible, lightweight, and cost-effective solution for electromagnetic shielding applications. This study investigated the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness (EMSE), reflection, and absorption of hybrid knitted fabrics, such as 1 × 1 rib knit, single piqué knit, full cardigan rib knit, and Milano rib knit fabrics integrated with copper conductor wire in the X-band frequency range. The measurements were made using a through, reflect, and line (TRL) calibrated waveguide measurement system. The results show that different fabric structures distinctly affect the shielding performance at various frequency ranges. The findings indicate that knitted fabric structures can be optimised for specific frequency bands and provide an effective and adaptable shielding solution. Due to their lightweight, breathable, and stretchable nature, these fabrics are suitable for wearable electronic systems, such as smart clothing, health monitoring devices, and electromagnetic protective garments. Additionally, their cost-effectiveness and ease of integration make them advantageous for indoor electromagnetic shielding solutions, including shielded enclosures, curtains, or wall linings used in medical facilities, military communication centers, and sensitive laboratory environments. In the automotive and aerospace sectors, these fabrics can also be applied to cabin insulation materials to reduce electromagnetic interference that affects navigation or communication systems. Their tunable shielding properties across the X-band frequency range further enhance their adaptability in environments where frequency-selective shielding is critical.
Ediz Erdem (Sun,) studied this question.