Structural Composite and Multifunctional Applications of Lightweight Polymer‐Based Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Materials: A Review

ABSTRACT With the popularization of 5G communication technology and the rapid development of electronic devices, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials are widely concerned. Conductive polymeric composites (CPCs) are usually used in EMI shielding due to their flexibility, corrosion resistance, processability and biocompatibility compared to metal‐based EMI shielding materials. The demand for lightweight polymer composites in many fields such as aerospace and new energy vehicles is growing increasingly urgent. Realizing a balance between electromagnetic shielding, lightweight design, and multifunctionality presents a major challenge, and structural composites has been an ideal solution to address these challenges. In this review, the preparation method for lightweight CPCs with single structure including uniform, segregated, porous and layered structures related to EMI is first introduced. Then, the review provides a systematic summary of the structural composite classification for the first time, emphasis on design strategies for structural composite. In addition, multifunctional applications of the resulted EMI shielding materials are introduced. Finally, challenges and potential applications of EMI shielding composites are presented, which provide important guidance for the development of advanced EMI shielding composites.