J. Mater. Sci. Technol. ›› 2024, Vol. 197: 171-182.DOI: 10.1016/j.jmst.2024.01.079

Special Issue: Composites 2024 Electronic materials 2024 Polymers 2024 Electromagnetic interference shielding materials

• Research Article • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Skin-inspired self-healing polycaprolactone-based composite induced by photo/electro stimuli for highly absorbed and stable electromagnetic interference shielding

Minghuan Hou, Jian Wang*   

  1. School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xihua University, Chengdu 610039, China
  • Received:2023-12-14 Revised:2024-01-23 Accepted:2024-01-24 Published:2024-10-20 Online:2024-10-15
  • Contact: *E-mail address: wangjianxhu@163.com (J. Wang)

Abstract: The endeavor to attain prolonged stability and heightened electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) in polymer-matrix composites remains an arduous pursuit, particularly when subjected to external mechanical trauma or adverse environmental conditions. In this context, a self-healing and efficient EMI shielding polycaprolactone (PCL) composite with a unique electromagnetic gradient and interface-metalized segregated structure is assembled through layer-by-layer casting and a hot-pressing process. The combined effect of the induction of the electromagnetic gradient layer and the massive multiple interface reflection and scattering from the segregated-like structure results in an exceptional EMI SE of 57.0 dB and a low reflection (R) value of only 0.28. Additionally, the composite boasts impressive photothermal and electrothermal properties, allowing for self-healing under solar irradiation or electrical stimulation. Remarkably, this self-healing capability has been demonstrated through five cutting and healing cycles, exhibiting an impressive EMI SE retention rate of 88 %. Consequently, the composite with rapid photo/electro-driven self-healing properties will be able to maintain EMI shielding performance.

Key words: Polymer-matrix composites, Multifunctional composites, Photo/electro-driven, Self-healing, Electromagnetic interference shielding