Shielding Effectiveness of CNTs/SSFs/PA6 Conductive Composites

Abstract

A series of carbon nanotube (CNTs) and stainless steel fiber (SSFs) filled nylon 6 (PA6) conductive composites were synthesized for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications. The materials were prepared by the melt blending method with CNTs weight fraction of 1 and 3 wt% and SSFs of 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 wt%. The shielding effectiveness, electrical resistance and crystallization behaviors were measured. The results indicate that the shielding effectiveness and electrical properties can be improved by increasing either SSFs or CNTs contents. Higher content of CNTs can bring forward the percolation threshold and enhance the shielding effectiveness to 51.8 dB. Due to the nanoconfinement/multiple nucleation effects, PA6 crystallization behavior is influenced by adding the CNTs and SSFs.