Description:
Executive Summary
University of Virginia researchers have developed a novel foam carbon nanofiber–polymer composite material that provides a lightweight and durable solution for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding.
Background
EMI shielding is required to protect electronics from electromagnetic energy interference; this characteristic is especially valued for products containing sensitive electronic components that, when disturbed, could yield catastrophic results. EMI shielding has many important applications, especially those in the computer, antenna systems, medical devices, telecommunications, electronics, naval, air and space industries. Unfortunately, susceptibility to corrosion, high costs and weight often restrict the utility of many EMI shielding materials.
Invention Description
The present invention is a simple and effective method that produces a lightweight EMI-shielding material that is as effective per unit thickness, 15 percent lighter, more corrosion-resistant and less expensive to manufacture than current technology. U.Va. researchers have successfully developed a novel foam carbon nanofiber–polymer composite material that has the physical advantages of polymer foams and the electrical benefits of carbon nanotube(CNT) –polymer nanocomposites. The polymer foam component provides a lightweight, flexible, durable, shock-absorbing, and thermally and acoustically insulating material, while the CNT-polymer nanocomposites provide a high level of EMI shielding.
Advantages
The invention is:
- 15 percent lighter than existing technologies
- Inexpensive to manufacture
- Highly resistant to corrosion
Applications
Potential applications for this invention include the following areas and more:
- Aerospace and satellites
- Naval vessels
- Medical equipment
- Telecommunications and antenna systems
- Sensitive electronic devices
- EMI-shielded gaskets
