Polymeric textile-based electromagnetic interference shielding materials, their synthesis, mechanism and applications - A review

The rapid proliferation of electronic devices and their operation at high frequencies has raised the contamination of artificial electromagnetic radiations in the atmosphere to an unprecedented level that is responsible for catastrophe for ecology and electronic devices. Therefore, the lightweight and flexible electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials are of vital importance for controlling the pollution generated by such high-frequency EM radiations for protecting ecology and human health as well as the other nearby devices. In this regard, polymeric textile-based shielding composites have been proved to be the best due to their unique properties such as lightweight, excellent flexibility, low density, ease of processability and ease of handling. Moreover, such composites cover range of applications from everyday use to high-tech applications. Various polymeric textiles such as fibers, yarn, woven, nonwoven, knitted, as well as their hybrid composites have been extensively manipulated physically and/or chemically to act as shielding against such harmful radiations. This review encompasses from basic concept of EMI shielding for beginner to the latest research in polymeric-based textile materials synthesis for experts, covering detailed mechanisms with schematic illustration. The review also covers the gap of materials synthesis and their application on polymeric textiles which could be used for EMI shielding applications. Furthermore, recent research regarding rendering EMI shielding properties at various stages of polymeric textile development is provided for readers with critical analysis. Lastly, the applications along with environmental compliance have also been presented for better understanding.