Advancing Environmental Sustainability: A Comprehensive Review of Waste-Based Composite Materials for Efficient Electromagnetic Shielding and Absorption

The surge in electronic devices and wireless communication technologies has increased the demand for effective electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and microwave-absorbing materials. Traditional EMI shielding materials, which predominantly utilize metals and polymer composites, pose significant environmental challenges due to their non-biodegradable nature. Recently, a range of novel electromagnetic shielding materials have been developed, with composite materials derived from waste sources emerging as promising alternatives for next-generation shielding solutions. This comprehensive review explores sustainable materials derived from various sources of recycled waste for EMI shielding applications. It begins by examining the fundamental principles and mechanisms of EMI shielding and absorption techniques necessary for cost-effective performance. The review further investigates a variety of sustainable materials, including agricultural residues, industrial by-products, animal waste, and electronic waste, evaluating their potential for EMI shielding. Additionally, it explores the structural characteristics, and electromagnetic properties, of composite materials created from different combinations of raw materials. The review further highlights the processing techniques and integration strategies used to develop effective shielding materials, as well as the potential applications of these materials and the challenges associated with their synthesis. The innovative use of solid waste materials from diverse origins in creating these shielding materials not only enhances their efficiency but also contributes to effective waste management and environmental sustainability.