Dual Gamma and Electromagnetic Radiation Shielding Composites Reinforced With Recycled Hybrid Fillers

ABSTRACT A triple‐filler hybrid composite was synthesized based on hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR) matrix reinforced by white cement (WC), blast furnace slag (SG), and conductive carbon black (CCB). Repurposing the industrial waste as fillers bestowed a semiconducting behavior at remarkably low CCB loadings of 10 phr, whereas DC conductivity values in the range of 10 −5 S/cm were achieved—comparable to traditional systems using 40–50 phr CCB. The hybrid composites demonstrated significant improvements in electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding (up to ~28 dB in the extended Ku band) and gamma radiation shielding (HVL of ~49 and ~60 mm for Ba‐133 and Cs‐137, respectively) compared to the base polymer. Our values outperform conventional concrete and offer a lighter, flexible alternative to steel‐based shields. Mechanical integrity was preserved across all formulations, with optimal samples exhibiting a combination of excellent tensile strength, compressive recovery, and low‐temperature flexibility. Morphological analysis confirmed the presence of interconnected filler networks and enhanced interfacial polarization, critical to the observed multifunctionality. This work establishes a pathway toward leveraging synergistic interactions between industrial waste fillers and minimal conductive additives to obtain composites having applications in next generation lightweight shielding technologies, wearable electronics, and sensors.