Transparent and Flexible Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Film Using ITO Nanobranches by Internal Scattering

A transparent and flexible film capable of shielding electromagnetic waves over a wide range of frequencies (X and K-u bands, 8-18 GHz) is prepared. The electromagnetic wave shielding film is fabricated using the excellent transmittance, electrical conductivity, and thermal stability of indium tin oxide (ITO), a representative transparent conductive oxide. The inherent mechanical brittleness of oxide ceramics is overcome by adopting a nanobranched structure. In addition, mechanical stability is maintained even after repeated bending experiments (200 000 times). The produced transparent and flexible shielding film is applied to practical GHz devices (Wi-Fi and LTE devices), and signal sensitivity is confirmed to decrease. Therefore, it can be widely applied to various transparent and flexible electronic devices.

Automated summary

A transparent and flexible film has been developed for shielding electromagnetic waves over a wide range of frequencies, using indium tin oxide (ITO) for its excellent transmittance, electrical conductivity, and thermal stability. The film overcomes mechanical brittleness through a nanobranched structure and maintains stability even after repeated bending experiments. It has been successfully applied to practical GHz devices, reducing signal sensitivity, and shows potential for wide application in various transparent and flexible electronic devices.