Dynamic Pyrolysis of Silver-Enhanced Conductive Porous Membranes: Mechanistic Insights into Electromagnetic Shielding, Joule Heating and Photothermal Efficiency

Abstract

Silver-based materials are renowned for their superior electrical conductivity and dielectric loss, which enhance electromagnetic (EM) shielding. However, challenges such as poor impedance matching and lack of flexibility limit their practical deployment. Microstructural engineering may hold the key to overcoming these hurdles by allowing precise control over impedance and loss properties, yet developing such materials that are both lightweight and flexible remains a formidable challenge. Herein, we developed a silver-doped flexible electromagnetic (EM) shielding porous membrane (PMA-3-1000) using a dynamic pyrolysis approach applied to a metal-azolate polymer. This method precisely controls porosity and conductivity, enhancing silver integration for exceptional EM shielding, achieving − 57 dB effectiveness and 99.998% efficiency. The membrane also demonstrates excellent performance in Joule heating and rapid photothermal conversion, reaching 110 °C in just 10 s under 1 kW/m². The Ag-doped porous fibers in a 3D dense structure synergistically enhance multi-reflection attenuation and electrical conductivity, while the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect from silver nanoparticles boosts Joule heating and photothermal properties. This lightweight and versatile membrane shows immense potential for military, aerospace and other high-performance applications, heralding new opportunities for multifunctional electromagnetic shielding solutions.

Graphical abstract

TOC The utility model pertains to a multifunctional porous nanofiber film that integrates electromagnetic shielding capabilities, Joule heating properties, photothermal characteristics, and light hydrophobicity.

Keywords

Flexible composite membrane / 3D porous fiber structure / Electromagnetic shielding / Joule heat / Light-heat conversion / Engineering / Materials Engineering

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Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China(2271178)

Shaanxi Provincial Department of Education service local special project, industrialization cultivation project(23JC007)

Research project of Xi'an Science and Technology Bureau(2022GXFW0011)

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

Donghua University, Shanghai, China