Microwave absorption properties of neoprene-based rubber with magnetic fillers and their effect on ozone degradation

The increasing demand for effective electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials has led to the development of polymer-based composites with tailored microwave absorption properties. In this study, neoprene-based rubber composites were fabricated using various magnetic and dielectric fillers, including carbonyl iron powder (CIP), ferrites, and zinc oxide. The microwave absorption behavior of the samples was evaluated using a vector network analyzer in the 8.2–12.4 GHz frequency range, while ozone-induced degradation was assessed through FTIR spectroscopy and tensile testing. The results revealed that increasing CIP content significantly enhanced the dielectric permittivity and microwave attenuation, with the highest absorption observed in samples containing 66% CIP. Ferrite fillers contributed to improved ozone resistance by stabilizing the rubber matrix during oxidative exposure. Hybrid systems combining CIP and ferrites demonstrated synergistic effects, achieving both high electromagnetic performance and mechanical durability. This dual-functional approach offers promising potential for applications in automotive, aerospace, and electronic systems where EMI shielding and environmental resilience are critical. The study highlights the importance of filler selection and composition optimization in designing advanced rubber composites for multifunctional performance.