Highly Bendable and Durable Waterproof Paper for Ultra-High Electromagnetic Interference Shielding.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Surface Chemistry

Background:

• Electromagnetic interference (EMI) poses challenges in electronic devices.
• Developing flexible, water-repellent EMI shielding materials is crucial for advanced applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a multifunctional paper with high EMI shielding, water repellency, and mechanical flexibility.
• To investigate the structure-property relationships of silver nanowire-cellulose composites.

Main Methods:

• Dip-coating preparation of cellulose paper with silver nanowires (AgNWs) and hydrophobic ceramic.
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for structural analysis.
• Electrical conductivity and EMI shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) measurements.

Main Results:

• Dense, interconnected AgNW network on cellulose fibers achieved at low AgNW density (0.13 mg/cm²).
• High in-plane conductivity of 33.69 S/cm.
• Exceptional EMI SE of 46 dB (X band) and specific EMI SE of 271.2 dB mm⁻¹.
• Maintained high EMI SE and water contact angle > 140° after mechanical stress.

Conclusions:

• The developed hydrophobic AgNW/cellulose composite paper exhibits excellent EMI shielding and waterproof properties.
• Its mechanical flexibility and durability make it suitable for demanding applications.
• Potential applications include conductive component packaging and EMI shielding elements in harsh conditions.