Advances in carbon fiber-based electromagnetic shielding materials: composition, structure, and application

With the swift advancement of wireless communication technology, there is increasing concern regarding the potential hazards posed by electromagnetic radiation emitted from various electronic devices. Carbon fiber (CF)-based composites have emerged as a vital component in structure function integrated electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding research, attributable to their exceptional electrical conductivity and mechanical properties. This review summarizes recent research advances in CF-based composites for EMI shielding. Initially, it explores the influence of factors such as the geometric form of CFs on their EMI shielding properties. Since CF is inefficient when used alone for EMI shielding, so additional EMI filler materials are often introduced. Therefore, delves into an in-depth analysis of the reinforcement mechanisms provided by the incorporated second-phase materials, as well as the smart structural designs within the CF-based composites. On this basis, the applications of CF-based EMI shielding materials in the fields of thermal conductivity, flexible wearable technology, and aerospace are reviewed. Additionally, the review offers a perspective on the future development trends and prospects of CF-based composites in the field of EMI shielding based on the current research status.