Enhancing electromagnetic shielding performance of cement-based materials using industrial waste copper swarf

With growing concerns over electromagnetic interference (EMI) in our surrounding environment, the impact of electromagnetic waves (EMW) on human health and electronic devices is increasingly drawing attention. This study explores the preparation methods of cement-based electromagnetic shielding materials by incorporating copper swarf waste produced by metal processing factories into the cement. It is realizing the recycling and utilization of discarded metal resources and producing copper swarf cement-based materials (CSCBM). Mechanical properties, electrical conductivity, related electromagnetic parameters and shielding efficiency of the material under the X-band were discussed in detail. This study provides new insights into the future recycling and utilization of copper swarf, as well as offering a reference investigation for the recycling of other types of metal swarf. In this study, compressive and flexural strengths were considered, while the morphology and position of copper swarf within the specimens were examined from both macroscopic and microscopic perspectives, taking into account the impact of the morphology and position of copper swarf on compressive and flexural strengths. Through discussions on complex permittivity and resistivity, it was concluded that copper swarf enhances electromagnetic shielding effectiveness by increasing the complex permittivity and reducing the matrix resistivity. Furthermore, based on previous studies, this research provides a theoretical analysis of the negative magnetic permeability phenomenon, offering support for future investigations into negative magnetic permeability phenomena. Under an electromagnetic field, eddy currents will be generated inside the CSCBM, which makes the magnetic permeability of the CSCBM negative. This research forms a foundation for enhancing the EMI shielding effects of cement-based materials using industrial copper swarf.