High angle sensitivity of carbon nanotubes films reinforced composites to electromagnetic interference shielding

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding composites with high angle sensitivity were fabricated by the introduction of highly aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) films into an epoxy matrix as reinforcement and conducting framework. Anisotropic structure was obtained which led to high angle sensitivity in electrical conductivity, mechanical performance and EMI shielding property. Conductivity can change from 307.12 S m⁻¹ in in-plane direction to non-conductive in out-of-plane direction, EMI effectiveness can be tuned from almost transparent to microwaves to 33.1 dB with incident wave angle changing from 0° to 90°. Moreover, mechanical performance was enhanced as CNTs films played main role in bearing load.