Fabrics for Buildtech electromagnetic shields based on plasma magnetron sputtering

Electromagnetic radiation may cause interference for the proper functioning of electronic equipment and risks for human’s health. Protection against the hazards of EM radiation on various frequencies may be achieved by flexible textile fabrics with electrical conductive properties. A novel technology for imparting conductive properties to fabrics is utilizing magnetron sputtering of metallic thin films. This research focuses on plasma coated fabrics with three types of metallic layers: Nick el, Chrome and Titanium. PES woven fabrics of 88 g/m2 were coated by plasma magnetron sputtering with these three types of metals. Coating was performed on both sides of the fabric with a thickness of 400 nm. SEM images provedmetal deposition on the fiber surface, while atomic absorption tests showed the content of deposited metal. Linear resistance of coated fabrics was measured with Ohmmeter for a preliminary check of electric conductivity of the achieved fabrics. Electromagnetic shielding effectiveness tests showed a slight increase of EMSE above the noise level in the frequency range of 100-1000 MHz, of 2- 3 dB. The research studies will continue to improve shielding effectiveness of plasma coated fabrics for electromagnetic shielding.