Check Sheet for MS Thesis Proposal and Topic Approval

1 Title Page 
2 Table of contents 
3 Problem Statement 
4 Aims & Objectives 
5 Literature Review 
6 Methodology of Research 
a) Theoretical Studies 
b) Experimental Set Up
c) Method of Analysis
d) Result Expected
7 Utilization of Research Results 
8 Work Schedule Plan 
9 Budget Description 
10 References 
11 Curriculum Vitae 
12 Undertaking 
13 Board of Post Graduate Studies Remarks 

Certified that the Synopsis/Topic approval report is according to the items listed in Check Sheet.

Supervisor: Director Postgraduate Studies,

(D. [Link].)
Name: Malik Sajjad Mehmood Name: Dr Muhammad Nadeem Badani_
Signature:______________ Signature:________________
Date: __________________ Date:____________________

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 M.S Thesis Proposal
MODELING AND SIMULATION OF POLYMER MICRO AND
NANO COMPOSITE FOR ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE
(EMI) SHIELDING APPLICATIONS

Submitted By
Aneeqa Bibi
2k-22-PHY-MS-11
Supervisor
Dr. Malik Sajjad Mehmood
Associate Professor (D. [Link].)

DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICAL SCIENCES

FACULTY OF BASIC SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES
UNIVERSITY OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, TAXILA
2023

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Table of Contents
Title Page.........................................................................................................................................1
1. Problem Statement...................................................................................................................4
2. Aims and Objectives................................................................................................................4
2.1. Aims..................................................................................................................................4
2.2. Objectives..........................................................................................................................4
3. Literature Review....................................................................................................................5
3.1. Textiles as EMI shielding.................................................................................................5
3.2. Nonmetallic material for EMI shielding...........................................................................5
3.3. Conducting Polymer Composites in EMI Shielding.........................................................5
3.4. Metal Coated Fabrics in EMI Shielding...........................................................................6
3.5. Carbon nanotubes (CNTS) for EMI shielding..................................................................6
3.6. Graphene nanocomposites for EMI shielding...................................................................7
4. COMSOL, A Primer................................................................................................................8
5. Methodology............................................................................................................................9
5.1. Flow Chart.......................................................................................................................10
6. Expected results:....................................................................................................................11
7. Utilization of Research..........................................................................................................11
8. Work Schedule Plan..............................................................................................................11
8.1 Using COMSOL EMI.....................................................................................................12
9. References:............................................................................................................................13
10. Curriculum Vitae.....................................................................................................................14
11. Undertaking.............................................................................................................................15
12. Supervisor’s comments............................................................................................................15
13. Board of Post Graduate Studies remarks.................................................................................15

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1. Problem Statement
In an era where technological gadgets are used more and more, the issue of electromagnetic
interference (EMI) has become a critical concern. Polymer-based micro and nanocomposites
have emerged as potential solutions for EMI shielding due to their lightweight, flexible, and cost-
effective nature. However, the complex interplay of material composition, dispersion of
conductive nanofillers, and processing conditions poses a significant challenge in designing and
optimizing these composites for reliable EMI shielding performance. Existing research offers
valuable insights but lacks comprehensive modeling and simulation methodologies to predict the
shielding effectiveness (SE) of these composites under varying conditions. Additionally, a
deeper exploration of the trade-offs between EMI shielding, mechanical properties, and cost-
effectiveness is needed to develop practical materials. This thesis aims to address these gaps by
advancing modeling and simulation techniques for polymer micro and nanocomposites tailored
for EMI shielding.

The study seeks to unravel the intricate factors influencing EMI shielding in polymer
composites, offering a robust framework for their design and optimization. The outcomes
promise to elevate the development of next-generation EMI shielding materials, thereby
enhancing the electromagnetic compatibility of electronic systems across industries.

2. Aims and Objectives

2.1. Aims
We will design a polymer based hybrid materials for general purpose during shielding(sound
waves and electromagnetic waves.

2.2. Objectives
 To make a geometry optimized for subject matter of interest.
 Simulating EM shielding effectiveness and noise control effectiveness.
 To effectively control the acoustics of medium and low frequencies.(sound insulation).
 To discover a composite structure configuration that enables the electromagnetic waves’s
tuning.

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3. Literature Review
3.1. Textiles as EMI shielding
Textiles and metallized fabrics can also be use as an EMI shielding and strongly depend on the
geometry of the fabrics e.g. thickness or void fraction size and the metallic concentration in to
the fabrics[1]. Such textiles are very useful for peoples who are working on the EM irradiating
environment .As they used these textiles as a cover for various sensitive electronic equipment’s
or shield a room for protecting from electromagnetic radiations.

3.2. Nonmetallic material for EMI shielding

Jou, W. S. [Link].,[2] fabricated an EM shielding material comprising nylon-66 composites for
use in laser modules. Effects of the weight percentage and conductive carbon fiber length on the
SE of nylon-66 were investigated. The results indicated an increased shielding effectiveness of
long conductive carbon fiber in nylon-66 than the short length carbon fiber nylon-66 with the
same carbon fibers weight percentage. On the same thing higher carbon fiber concentration gives
good SE with the same composite length. Higher shielding effectiveness means less amount of
the energy passes through the material. Long fiber has a probability to form three dimension
conductive network due to overlap together[3]. Due to this phenomenon long or high weight
percentage carbon fiber gives better SE then the less weight or small length carbon fiber
concentration. Further results indicate the SE of 50 dB with the highest given frequency 1 GHz
and 42 dB with 30MHz incoming frequency.

3.3. Conducting Polymer Composites in EMI Shielding

Yuping, [Link]., examined the electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE)
and ability to conduct electricity of silicon rubber (SR) composites with varying filler loads of
HC1-doped polyaniline (PAN-HC1). Measurements were taken from the frequency range 3 to
1500 MHz using coaxial cable method. The volume resistivity of PAN-HC1 composites was
found to decrease by nine orders of magnitude when compared to emerald base PAN (PAN-EB)
composites as the mass ratio of PAN-HC1 increases, going from 5.46 x 103 Ωcm to 9.07 x 100Ω
cm. At a mass ratio loading of 100 for PAN-HC1, the measured SE increased from 16 to 19.3 db.
It was further concluded that PAN-HC1 composites have better electrical conductivity than
PAN-EB composites, and that as PAN-HC1 is increased, SE increases quickly due to the bonds
and connections between the components as well as the development of conducting islands.

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Resistance losses and interfacial polarization losses are significant factors contributing to the
increase in specific electrical conductivity (SE).

3.4. Metal Coated Fabrics in EMI Shielding

Fabrics coating with some metal or metallic alloy can be use for EMI shielding by means of
reflection. Metallic coated fabrics can be synthesized with vacuum evaporation, electroless
plating and chemical vapor deposition. Generally metal or metallic alloy sheet deposit on the
surface of the fabric for EMI shielding application[5].

Afzali, Arezoo. [Link].,[6] The process involved creating a conductive fiber by applying a Cu-Ni-
P coating onto the cotton fiber, employing an alternative method. Results have been made
between the coated and uncoated cotton fibers. Results showed higher fiber thickness with good
mechanical strength of coated fiber. Along with the SE measurement, a firm framework and
evenly distributed metallic fragments have also been recorded. The calculated SE of cotton fiber
coated with Copper went beyond 90 dB between fifty megahertz and 2.7 Gigahertz. The major
problem arise that shielding mechanism decreases by multiple time washing .coated cotton fiber
showed supreme shielding behavior over washing and abrasion with 80 dB . Fastness testing
often reveals the removal of coated metallic particles from the fiber's interface . Due to its strong
resistance to fading from washing and evenly dispersed conducting particles, the Cu-Ni-P alloy
offers excellent conducting activity on the outermost layer of the fabric.

3.5. Carbon nanotubes (CNTS) for EMI shielding

A conductive nanoparticle with a generally insulating grid prompts a critical build of the
electrical conductivity. Increasing content results increase conductivity .The main feature of the
CNTs make them different from other nanoparticles are the property of high aspect ratio. A
substantially content of CNTs may be subsequently gives the same amount of electrical
conductivity then those with more nanoparticles .Hence a number of methodologies had been
proceeded over previous two decades to decrease the EMI impacts. Polymer plays a viable role
for EMI shielding due to low density, flexibility, simple processability and erosion
imperviousness etc. Polymer nanocomposite properties are administered by its nature and also
about its filler constituents with the filler interaction. Polymer doesn’t take part in EMI shielding
but only provide a bond between the nanocomposites [7].Normally polymeric matrices attain
poor electrical conductivity with bad dielectric and magnetic properties offers a transparent

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medium for electromagnetic radiations .Whole shielding mechanism responsibility are on the
filler due to conductivity or magnetic properties .There is a very difficult task to incorporate a
filler on to the polymer matrix due to high surface area with agglomerated inclinations.
Therefore, in the recent past various nanomaterials capable for electromagnetic properties
utilized as filler e.g. graphite, CNTs dielectric (titanates )or magnetic (ferrites).In this section we
discussed CNTs as a filler with different polymer matrix for shielding application from various
literature survey.

3.6. Graphene nanocomposites for EMI shielding

Based on the preceding analysis, it can be concluded that carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have proven
to be highly effective as conductive additives in various applications, particularly in EMI
shielding. Nevertheless, a significant drawback associated with CNTs as nanofillers is their
elevated production cost, rendering mass production of CNT-based polymer composites a
formidable challenge [8].Graphene, in contrast, represents a one-atom-thick, two-dimensional
carbon nanofiller arranged in a sp2 honeycomb crystal lattice. It distinguishes itself from CNTs
due to its exceptional mechanical properties, impressive thermal characteristics, and outstanding
electronic transport mechanisms [9-12]. Graphene exhibits a malleability that is comparable to, if
not slightly superior to, CNTs but far surpasses that of materials like steel, Kevlar, HDPE, and
natural rubber. It also boasts superior thermal conductivity when compared to these substances,
although its electrical conductivity is somewhat lower than steel but significantly higher than the
rest. Polymer/graphene nanocomposites exhibit superior mechanical, thermal, gas barrier,
electrical, and fire-retardant properties when contrasted with pristine polymers. Moreover,
reports suggest that improvements in both mechanical and electrical properties are more
pronounced in graphene-based polymer nanocomposites in comparison to clay or other carbon
filler-based counterparts. The enhancement of physicochemical properties hinges strongly on the
dispersion of graphene layers within the polymer matrix and the establishment of effective
interfacial bonding between these graphene layers and the polymer matrix. It's important to note
that the choice of the base polymer significantly influences the final properties of graphene-
reinforced polymer nanocomposites. Pure graphene is not compatible with natural polymers and
fails to form homogeneous composites [13]. Interestingly, graphene oxide sheets, characterized
by their high oxygen content and the presence of various functional groups such as hydroxyl,

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epoxide, diols, ketones, and carboxyl, can substantially enhance van der Waals interactions and
are more compatible with natural polymers.

4. COMSOL, A Primer
Science and engineering are impossible without computer simulation these days. Especially in
development of new product or optimization of designs, it is a key player in digital analysis.
There are many simulations available currently, starting from very basic programming languages
up to sophisticated high level software applications. While each of these techniques has its
unique characteristics, they all share a common concern: the reliability of the [Link] it
comes to assessing the reliability of software, it's essential to keep the ultimate goal in mind -
creating a model that accurately represents real-world phenomena. A computer simulation
environment essentially translates physical laws from the real world into their virtual
counterparts. The extent of simplification in this translation process significantly impacts the
accuracy of the resulting model. Ideally, a simulation environment should provide the flexibility
to incorporate any relevant physical effect into your model. This is precisely what COMSOL is
designed to do [14]. It offers a versatile platform that allows both novice and advanced users to
model all pertinent physical aspects of their designs. Advanced users can delve deeper into the
software and tailor solutions to suit their specific needs. With COMSOL's all-inclusive modeling
environment, users can confidently construct models with real-world precision. Several notable
characteristics of COMSOL become evident through its use. Compatibility is a key feature, as it
ensures that every type of simulation within the package can be seamlessly combined with any
other. This requirement mirrors real-world scenarios where different physical effects are often
interconnected. Enforcing compatibility guarantees consistent Multiphysics models, and users
need not worry about creating disconnected models as the COMSOL product range expands.
Adaptability is another prominent trait of the COMSOL platform. As your modeling needs
evolve, so does the software. If you need to introduce an additional physical effect into your
model, you can easily do so. When an input to your model requires a formula, you can simply
input it. Tools such as parameterized geometry, interactive meshing, and custom solver
sequences allow you to quickly adapt to changing requirements. COMSOL Multiphysics offers
several problem-solving benefits. It helps you gain a deeper understanding of your project when
you embark on a new endeavor. You can explore various geometric and physical characteristics
of your model to focus on the essential design challenges. The software's flexibility enables the

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setup and execution of "what-if" scenarios, facilitating further analysis. You can optimize
various aspects of your model and run parameter sweeps and target functions right within the
user interface. From start to finish, COMSOL serves as a comprehensive problem-solving tool.
As you become more proficient with COMSOL, your confidence in computer simulation will
grow. You'll become a more efficient modeler, and the results will reflect your expertise. The
remainder of this introduction aims to provide you with a solid foundation for achieving this
goal. After an initial overview of the user interface, a series of tutorials will guide you through
sample models, highlighting key features. Informative charts will give you insights into
COMSOL's capabilities, including associated files, functions, and built-in options. By the end of
this introduction, you'll be well on your way to reaping the full benefits that COMSOL has to
offer.

5. Methodology
This field of study is totally theoretical.

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5.1. Flow Chart

Begin

3D

Development of
geometry

Boundary Conditions

Physics

EMI Shielding
Effectiveness

Analysis

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6. Expected results:
It is highly expected that we have come with some solution of:
 It is highly expected that the resulting conducting polymer will attain the increasing electrical
conductivity then that of virgin polymer of PE.
 More electrical conductivity means more absorption –dominating shielding mechanism.
 More expectation is the temperature resistivity characteristics by adding a filler in polymer
makes the polymer composites more feasible.

7. Utilization of Research

 Due to increase in the optical properties of polymers PE composites will helpful to fabricate
highly strengthen optical fibers.
 These results will also helpful for making optical sensors.
 For shielding various electronic components to save from external EM radiations.

8. Work Schedule Plan

Project Management Design

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8.1Using COMSOL EMI
 Geometry of polymer nano composites

 X band
 EMI shielding effectiveness of the composite under study.

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9. References:
[1]R. Wilson, G. George, and K. Joseph, "An Introduction to Materials for Potential EMI
Shielding Applications: Status and Future," in Materials for Potential EMI Shielding
Applications: Elsevier, 2020, pp. 1-8.
[2]W. Jou, T. Wu, S. Chiu, and W. Cheng, "Electromagnetic Shielding of Nylon-66
Composites Applied to Laser Modules," Journal of Electronic Materials, vol. 30, no. 10,
pp. 1287-1293, 2001.
[3]M. K. Yazdi, B. Noorbakhsh, B. Nazari, and Z. Ranjbar, "Preparation and EMI Shielding
Performance of Epoxy/Non-metallic Conductive Fillers Nano-Composites," Progress in
Organic Coatings, vol. 145, p. 105674-105679, 2020.
[4]D. Yuping, L. Shunhua, and G. Hongtao, "Investigation of Electrical Conductivity and
Electromagnetic Shielding Effectiveness of Polyaniline Composite," Science and
Technology of Advanced Materials, vol. 6, no. 5, pp. 513-518, 2005.
[5]S. Hu, D. Wang, Y. Kyosev, D. Kremenakova, and J. Militky, "The Novel Approach of
EMI Shielding Simulation for Metal Coated Nonwoven Textiles with Optimized Textile
Module," Polymer Testing, vol. 114, p. 107706-107710, 2022.
[6]A. Afzali, V. Mottaghitalab, M. S. Motlagh, and A. K. Haghi, "The Electroless Plating of
Cu-Ni-P Alloy onto Cotton Fabrics," Korean Journal of Chemical Engineering, vol. 27,
no. 4, pp. 1145-1149, 2010.
[7]M. Jung, Y.-s. Lee, S.-G. Hong, and J. Moon, "Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in Ultra-High
Performance Concrete (UHPC): Dispersion, Mechanical Properties, and Electromagnetic
Interference (EMI) Shielding Effectiveness (SE)," Cement and Concrete Research, vol.
131, p. 106017-106019, 2020.
[8]N. Liu, F. Luo, H. Wu, Y. Liu, C. Zhang, and J. Chen, "One ‐Step Ionic ‐Liquid ‐Assisted
Electrochemical Synthesis of Ionic‐Liquid‐Functionalized Graphene Sheets Directly from
Graphite," Advanced Functional Materials, vol. 18, no. 10, pp. 1518-1525, 2008.
[9]G. Wang et al., "Facile Synthesis and Characterization of Graphene Nanosheets," The
Journal of Physical Chemistry C, vol. 112, no. 22, pp. 8192-8195, 2008.
[10]X. Li, X. Wang, L. Zhang, S. Lee, and H. Dai, "Chemically Derived, Ultrasmooth
Graphene Nanoribbon Semiconductors," Science, vol. 319, no. 5867, pp. 1229-1232,
2008.
[11]P. Blake et al., "Graphene-Based Liquid Crystal Device," Nano Letters, vol. 8, no. 6,
pp. 1704-1708, 2008.
[12]M. J. Allen, V. C. Tung, and R. B. Kaner, "Honeycomb Carbon: A Review of
Graphene," Chemical Reviews, vol. 110, no. 1, pp. 132-145, 2009.
[13]L. Anderson, P. Govindaraj, A. Ang, A. Mirabedini, and N. Hameed, "Modelling,
Fabrication and Characterization of Graphene/Polymer Nanocomposites for
Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Applications," Carbon Trends, vol. 4, p. 100047,
2021.

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10. Curriculum Vitae
Aneeqa Bibi
House no 49 Lane no 23 Phase-2 Wah Model Town Wah Cantt.
Email: aneeqayounas345@[Link]
Objective
To deliver the lecture with quality of knowledge and making the conceptual structure to enhance
the concept from fundamental level to higher level.
Personal Profile
Well ability to work under pressure, handle various demands of tasks simultaneously, interact
supportively within team environment and adapt readily to the demands of the job.
Father’s Name Muhammad Younas
Religion Islam
Date of Birth 26-01-1999
N.I.C 37406-3978174-0
Qualification
BS Physics 2017-2021
University Of Wah, Wah Cantt. 96.22%
[Link] 2015-2017
F.G Post Graduate College For Women, Wah Cantt. Federal Board
Matriculation 2013-2015
F.G Girls Public Secondary School, Wah Cantt. Federal Board

Specialization
Proficiency in employing advanced computational techniques to model and simulate the
electromagnetic properties of polymer micro and nano composites, with a primary focus on their
application in Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) shielding. Utilizes COMSOL for precision in
modeling and simulation.

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11. Undertaking
I certify that research work titled “Modeling and Simulation of Polymer micro and nano
composite for Electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications” is my own work.
The work has not, in whole or in part, been presented elsewhere for assessment. Where material
has been used from other sources it has been properly acknowledged/referred.

Signature of Student
Aneeqa Bibi
2k-22-PHY-MS-011

12. Supervisor’s comments

Signature of Supervisor
Dr. Malik Sajjad Mehmood
Associate Professor

13. Board of Post Graduate Studies remarks

The above proposal duly recommended by the Board of postgraduate Studies in its meeting
______________ held on _______________ is forward to the Director ASR & TD for obtaining
the approval of the Dean of the Faculty.

Sign:____________________

Dr. Muhammad Nadeem Badani

Director PGS

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