Elastomer foam nanocomposites for electromagnetic dissipation and shielding applications

A novel elastomer foamed nanocomposite has been developed with high electromagnetic dissipation and shielding properties. This light weight foamed fluorocarbon incorporates multi-walled carbon nanotubes at low loading concentrations to achieve levels of conductivity and energy shielding that surpass the requirements for electromagnetic static discharge (ESD) and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding. Foaming the elastomer reduces that weight by 30% with minimal impact on ESD or EMI characteristics. The percolation threshold is at about 2% carbon nanotubes and the saturation conductivity occurs at 8% carbon nanotubes by weight. Combining the good electrical properties with the flexibility and fluid resistance of fluorocarbon yields a very versatile yet light weight material for a variety of ESD and EMI applications.