In the quest for advanced materials that can shield sensitive electronic equipment from electromagnetic interference (EMI), researchers have turned to nature for inspiration. A recent study published in *InfoMat* (translated from Chinese as “Information Materials”) introduces a novel bioinspired approach to creating highly effective EMI shielding materials, with significant implications for the energy sector and beyond.
The research, led by An Liu from the Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Science and Technology at Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xi’an, China, focuses on the development of marimo-like hollow heterostructure fillers. These fillers are designed to enhance the EMI shielding performance of polyimide aerogels, a lightweight and porous material with promising applications in various industries.
The team drew inspiration from the unique radial structures found on marimo, a type of algae known for its distinctive appearance. By mimicking these structures, the researchers created hollow spherical reduced graphene oxide (hs-rGO) filled with nickel-catalyzed nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes (Ni-NCNTs). These fillers were then incorporated into polyimide aerogels, resulting in a material with exceptional EMI shielding effectiveness of up to 68 decibels.
“The synergistic design of multilevel porous architectures, combined with the radially aligned Ni-NCNTs, significantly enhances the EMI shielding performance of the aerogels,” explained Liu. This innovative approach not only improves shielding capabilities but also imparts the aerogels with rapid and durable pressure-sensing performance, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.
The potential commercial impacts of this research are substantial, particularly in the energy sector. As electronic devices become increasingly prevalent in energy infrastructure, the need for effective EMI shielding becomes more critical. The advanced materials developed by Liu’s team could play a crucial role in protecting sensitive equipment from electromagnetic interference, ensuring the reliable operation of energy systems.
Moreover, the multifunctional nature of these aerogels, combining high-efficiency EMI shielding with mechanical sensing, opens up new possibilities for intelligent electronics, aerospace systems, and advanced communication technologies. “The combination of these properties highlights the promising potential of our materials in next-generation technologies,” said Liu.
The study also employed finite element simulations to elucidate the shielding mechanisms, providing valuable insights into the underlying physics of EMI shielding. This understanding could pave the way for further advancements in material design and optimization.
As the demand for advanced materials continues to grow, research like this is essential for driving innovation and meeting the evolving needs of various industries. The bioinspired construction strategy developed by Liu and his team represents a significant step forward in the field of EMI shielding, with far-reaching implications for the energy sector and beyond. With the publication in *InfoMat*, this research is poised to make a lasting impact on the scientific community and industry professionals alike.