Processing and out-of-plane properties of composites with embedded graphene paper for EMI shielding applications

This study focuses on the evaluation of the effects of incorporating a thin layer (‘paper’) of Graphene nanoplatelets (GnP) between the lamina on the processability and out-of-plane performance of glass fiber composites for EMI shielding applications. Various thicknesses of GnP paper (50, 120, and 240 µm) were embedded within layers of glass fabric for subsequent resin infusion. The out-of-plane failure surfaces were evaluated using a purpose-built fixture. In all experiments, the separation was observed within the graphene layers of the GnP paper rather than at composite/GnP interface. In comparison to pristine samples, decreases of 252%, 305%, and 386% respectively were recorded in the out-of-plane strength of embedded GnP papers. Numerical simulations were completed using a bilinear traction separation law based on the cohesive zone modeling approach. All composites were tested for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding properties. The EMI shielding was improved significantly by embedding GnP paper within glass fiber composites.