Recent advances and comprehensive review of electromagnetic interference shielding materials and technologies

Abstract

With the rapid expansion of electronic devices and the advent of advanced wireless communication technologies utilizing millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies, controlling EMI has become a significant engineering challenge. Conventional EMI shielding materials primarily rely on reflection mechanisms, which often cause secondary interference and signal degradation. Additionally, inherent physical limitations, high weight, and manufacturing complexity of traditional materials have driven the need for advanced materials that predominantly absorb electromagnetic energy while minimizing reflection. Innovative approaches incorporating multilayer architectures, conductive polymer composites, carbon-based nanostructures, and two-dimensional materials such as MXenes have demonstrated promising enhancements in EMI shielding performance. This review comprehensively elucidates the fundamental principles and mechanisms underlying EMI shielding with a focus on the mmWave spectrum. Emphasis is placed on the interplay of electrical, magnetic, and structural properties of materials to achieve superior shielding effectiveness, low reflectivity, and broadband absorption of electromagnetic waves. State-of-the-art fabrication techniques for multilayer structures, porous frameworks, prefabricated conductive networks, and MXene-based composite materials are critically examined. Moreover, environmental stability issues, industrial manufacturing compatibility, and integration challenges with existing electronic systems are systematically evaluated. By synthesizing recent advances and identifying emerging trends in absorption-dominant mmWave EMI shielding materials, this article provides strategic insights and research directions aimed at the development of next-generation lightweight, flexible, and high-performance EMI shielding solutions. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.