Optimizing microstructure for enhanced performance: A novel approach to EMI shielding with thin Mg98.5Zn0.5Y alloy sheets

The growing demand for lightweight, high-performance, cost-efficient electro-magnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials, driven by advancements in 5G telecommunications, electric vehicles, and wearable electronics, has prompted the development of a 0.8 mm Mg 98.5 Zn 0.5 Y alloy sheet with a unique lamellar structure. Fabricated via asymmetrical warm rolling, this alloy demonstrated outstanding EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) of 100-105 dB across the 30-1500 MHz range, outperforming other materials and thicker magnesium alloys. The superior EMI shielding performance is attributed to the interface between the α-Mg matrix and 14H-LPSO phases with contrasting conductivities, enhancing electromagnetic wave reflection and propagation within the shielding system. Additionally, increased rolling passes lead to higher density of 14H-LPSO phases and reduced lamellar spacing, contributing to improved internal reflection and energy dissipation. This work suggests that the lightweight and ultra-thin Mg 98.5 Zn 0.5 Y sheet, with its optimized microstructure, holds great potential as a high-performance EMI shielding material for practical electronic applications.