Highly Conductive 3D Segregated Graphene Architecture in Polypropylene Composite with Efficient EMI Shielding

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Modern electronic devices generate electromagnetic pollution, necessitating effective shielding materials.
• Polymers are widely used in electronics but require enhanced electrical conductivity for electromagnetic wave screening.
• Achieving uniform graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) distribution in non-polar polymers like polypropylene (PP) is challenging, limiting conductivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an efficient and scalable method for preparing graphene/polypropylene (PP) composites with enhanced electrical conductivity.
• To create a segregated architecture of GNPs within the PP matrix for improved electromagnetic interference shielding.
• To overcome the limitations of traditional melt-blending techniques for graphene-polymer composites.

Main Methods:

• A single-step approach involving coating PP particles with GNPs.
• Subsequent hot-pressing of the coated particles to form composites with a segregated GNPs architecture.
• Characterization of electrical conductivity and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE).

Main Results:

• The developed method achieved a segregated GNPs architecture in PP composites.
• Composites with 10 wt% GNPs reached an electrical conductivity of 10.86 S·cm⁻¹, approximately seven times higher than melt-blended composites.
• An electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) of 19.3 dB was achieved.

Conclusions:

• The proposed method offers a green, low-cost, and scalable route to fabricate high-performance graphene/PP composites.
• The segregated GNPs architecture significantly enhances electrical conductivity and EMI shielding.
• These composites are suitable for applications in electronics, aerospace, and automotive industries requiring effective electromagnetic shielding.