Structural Design for EMI Shielding: From Underlying Mechanisms to Common Pitfalls

TLDR

Modern civilization depends on advanced electronics, yet electromagnetic interference from digital systems threatens society, and current nanotech shielding efforts focus mainly on reflection rather than absorption. The review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of absorption‑dominant shielding structures, mechanisms, limitations, and common misconceptions. The authors analyze structural design strategies that prioritize absorption, emphasizing component‑level engineering and key electromagnetic wave‑attenuating factors. The review concludes that absorption‑dominant shielding design is a critical, often overlooked aspect of EMI protection.

Abstract

Abstract Modern human civilization deeply relies on the rapid advancement of cutting‐edge electronic systems that have revolutionized communication, education, aviation, and entertainment. However, the electromagnetic interference (EMI) generated by digital systems poses a significant threat to the society, potentially leading to a future crisis. While numerous efforts are made to develop nanotechnological shielding systems to mitigate the detrimental effects of EMI, there is limited focus on creating absorption‐dominant shielding solutions. Achieving absorption‐dominant EMI shields requires careful structural design engineering, starting from the smallest components and considering the most effective electromagnetic wave attenuating factors. This review offers a comprehensive overview of shielding structures, emphasizing the critical elements of absorption‐dominant shielding design, shielding mechanisms, limitations of both traditional and nanotechnological EMI shields, and common misconceptions about the foundational principles of EMI shielding science. This systematic review serves as a scientific guide for designing shielding structures that prioritize absorption, highlighting an often‐overlooked aspect of shielding science.