A review on electromagnetic shielding magnesium alloys

Electromagnetic waves generated by electronic equipment are widely present in all living and working spaces because of the rapid development of electronic products and frequent use of digital systems. Electromagnetic shielding is an effective method of protection against these waves. Therefore, the demand for materials with high electromagnetic shielding properties has remarkably increased. Magnesium (Mg) alloys, as potential electromagnetic shielding materials, have sparked great interest worldwide. This review highlights the effects of grain size, texture, alloying elements and second phase on the shielding properties of Mg alloys. Recent progress on the shielding properties of Mg–Zn, Mg–Al, Mg–RE and other new shielding Mg alloys is then summarised, and the successful design of Mg alloys with superior electromagnetic shielding properties, such as Mg–Zn–Y–Ce–Zr, Mg–Sn–Zn–Ca–Ce, Mg–Gd–Y–Zn–Zr and Mg-based composite materials, is described. Finally, this review provides insights into the future development and applications of Mg alloys with superior shielding properties.