A comparative study on biocomposites for electromagnetic interference shielding applications: A green initiative for environmental sustainability

Automobile and aerospace industries require lightweight materials with enhanced electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding properties to address the weight reduction problem. This research aims to experiment, understand, and correlate the behavior of bio-based hybrid kenaf fiber reinforced with nanoparticles compared to conventionally used EMI shielding materials. The bio-based kenaf composite was reinforced with epoxy resin and nanoparticles of nickel (Ni), bamboo charcoal (BC), and carbon black (CB) by impregnating the reinforcement between the two kenaf fiber mats, forming a sandwich. The reinforcement was prepared using a magnetic stirrer to ensure the homogeneous distribution of nanoparticles. The specifications of the various test specimens were determined using response surface methods with a central composite design. The fiber's electromagnetic interference (EMI) was determined using the vector network analyser (N5230A PNA-L). Statistical and simulation analyses were also performed using minitab and comsol software to verify and validate the results. The combination with 9 wt% Ni, 15 wt% BC, and 6 wt% CB showed a maximum EMI shielding effectiveness of 39.70 dB. The material demonstrated improved qualities, proving it to be a viable alternative to conventional materials, thereby reducing dependency on non-recyclable materials.