Aramid nanofiber/liquid metal/Gd2O3 flexible films with magnetic-conductive interfaces for electromagnetic interference shielding and Joule heating

The increasingly complex electromagnetic environments necessitate advanced electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials with flexibility, high shielding efficiency, lightweight, and multifunctionality . Here, we present a mechanically robust and flexible aramid nanofiber/liquid metal/Gd 2 O 3 (ALG) composite film engineered via vacuum-assisted filtration and mechanical pressing. By integrating liquid metal (LM) with high conductivity and rare-earth Gd 2 O 3 nanoparticles to induce magneto-dielectric synergy, the optimized ALG film achieves exceptional electrical conductivity (1075.0 S/cm) and EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) of 74.3 dB at a minimal thickness of 68 μm, alongside a specific SE (SSE) of 1092.6 dB mm −1 . The unique combination of the conductive pathways of LM, the magnetic loss of Gd 2 O 3 , and the mechanical reinforcement of aramid nanofibers enables balanced dielectric-magnetic energy dissipation while maintaining ultra-low density and flexibility. To unravel the underlying shielding mechanism, frequency-domain simulations were performed using the High-Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS), providing quantitative insights into the electromagnetic wave dissipation pathways within the composite. Furthermore, the film exhibits rapid Joule heating , highlighting its dual functionality for EMI shielding and thermal management. This work advances the development of multifunctional shielding materials for next-generation wearable electronics , aerospace systems , and defense technologies. • A double-layered architecture that combines mechanically robust ANF with LM/Gd 2 O 3 interfaces is developed. • The flexible composite film demonstrates outstanding electromagnetic shielding effectiveness (74.3 dB) at 68 μm thickness. • The superior electrical conductivity endows the ALG film with remarkable Joule heating performance.