This study proposes to introduce a very novel multimedia laminated electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield based on natural rubber/organically modified hydrotalcite /carbon nanotube hybrid bio nanocomposites and silver nanosheet by exploiting the impressive properties of natural rubber such as high flexibility, portability, biocompatibility and easy processability, extraordinary EMI absorbing ability of multiwalled carbon nanotube and high EMI reflection power of silver nanosheet. The fabrication of natural rubber/ organically modified hydrotalcite/carbon nanotube hybrid bio-nano composites was accomplished by simple eco-friendly mechanical mixing using a conventional lab-scale two-roll mill followed by compression moulding. This research work tends to be innovative as the hybrid approach facilitates the excellent dispersion of one dimensional (1D) multiwalled carbon nanotube into the rubber matrix with the incorporation of two dimensional (2D) organically modified hydrotalcite to arrive at appreciable electrical conductivity and dielectric strength values to satisfy the criteria for functioning as EMI shield. Interestingly, it has been recognized that the multi-laminated EMI shield obtained by incorporating one silver nanosheet between two natural rubber / organically modified hydrotalcite/carbon nanotube hybrid bio-nano composite sheets has an EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) value of -80 dB, which is nearly thrice the value of the configuration of the single nanocomposite sheet. The colossal value of EMI achieved can be explained by the tripling mechanism applied within the shield. The advantage of this system lies in the fact that the shielding EMI is achieved mainly by absorption. Thus it will be an effective shield for protecting human beings and sensitive electronic equipment from the harmful radiations emitted tremendously due to the fast-growing telecommunications in this digital era.

Natural rubber nanocomposite based flexible and lightweight multimedia laminated electromagnetic interference shield

ACS Fall 2021

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