IIT-Mandi researchers develop eco-friendly material to curb electromagnetic interference

The team has developed a distinctive mixture comprising kenaf fiber (known as Deccan Hemp/Ambari in local languages) and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE).

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Mandi researchers have produced a biodegradable natural fibre that can protect electronic equipment and systems, including drones, from electromagnetic interference, the engineering school said on May 16.

The composite material developed by IIT-Mandi, which provides an electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield, can be used in electronic equipment casing to overhead bins and even unmanned aerial vehicles, the statement said.

EMI shielding materials are essential to protect electronic devices and systems from electromagnetic interference, which has grown with the proliferation of electronic devices.

Electromagnetic interference can affect the functions of electronic systems across industries such as radar systems, military controls, and networking infrastructure, the statement said.

Composite materials, blending two or more substances, can help curb these interferences.

Composites have been used since ancient times. Clay and straw were combined to create composite bricks for construction.

Today, natural fibre-reinforced composites, such as jute and hemp, are making a comeback due to environmental concerns, finding diverse applications in different sectors.

One area where composites are increasingly used is EMI shielding.

A team of researchers from IIT-Mandi and VTTT Finland, led by Dr Himanshu Pathak, associate professor, and Dr Sunny Zafar, associate professor of the School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, developed a composite material to provide robust EMI shielding while adhering to eco-friendly principles, the statement said.

The team developed a mixture of kenaf fibre (known as Deccan hemp/ambari in local languages) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

Kenaf, recognised for its strength and low density as a natural fibre, acts as an optimal reinforcement material, augmenting the mechanical properties of the composite while diminishing its environmental impact.

HDPE, a common use recyclable plastic, adds to the composite's eco-friendly characteristics, the statement added.

For EMI shielding, the composite must be an electrical conductor. For that, the researchers incorporated carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which exhibited superior EMI shielding and exceptional mechanical strength.

"Our work in developing eco-friendly EMI shielding materials combines technological advancement with ecological responsibility,” Dr Pathak said.

Research scholar Aditya Pratap Singh at IIT-Mandi and Dr Siddharth Suman, a Research Scientist at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, were also part of the project.

The details of the study have been published in the journal Polymer Composites.