Cellulose-inspired approaches to sustainable EMI shielding materials: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Electromagnetic induction (EMI) shielding has become essential across various industries to counteract the detrimental impact of EMI on electronic devices and delicate machinery. Traditional EMI shielding materials, predominantly composed of metals and metal alloys, raise environmental concerns due to their non-biodegradability and energy-intensive manufacturing processes. Consequently, demand for environmentally friendly materials for EMI shielding applications is rising. This comprehensive review focuses on sustainable materials derived from bamboo, wood, cellulose, biopolymers, and industrial recycled materials for EMI shielding. The study begins with an overview of the theoretical principles and mechanisms underlying EMI shielding, providing insights into the ideal requirements and structure-property relationships of shielding materials. Subsequently, various categories of sustainable materials for EMI shielding are compared, including aerogel-based, foam-based, nanocarbon (CNT/graphene)-based, nanocellulose-based, and hybrid biocomposites. These materials will be studied in-depth based on their material type, structure type, and production method, encompassing diverse approaches such as bottom-up synthesis, top-down fabrication, and composite assembly. Furthermore, the review highlights the difficulties and potential advantages linked with developing sustainable materials for EMI shielding. By exploring bamboo, wood, cellulose and biopolymer-based materials, this review contributes to the ongoing efforts in advancing sustainable practices in EMI shielding technology.