Highly conductive PBFDO-based multifunctional composite for electromagnetic interference shielding, thermal management, and sensing

Abstract

The development of highly conductive composites hinges critically on the uniform dispersion of conductive fillers within polymer matrices, yet traditional metal-based and carbon-based conductive materials often encounter issues of agglomeration. In this study, we successfully develop a homogeneous conductive composite of poly(benzodifurandione) (PBFDO) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) by leveraging the intermolecular hydrogen bonding effect. This composite not only demonstrates excellent stretchability and achieves a peak electrical conductivity of 312 S cm⁻¹, but also holds significant potential for applications in electromagnetic interference shielding, thermal management, and sensing. Specifically, the PBFDO–TPU conductive composite (300 μm) exhibits superior electromagnetic interference shielding performance, achieving a maximum electromagnetic shielding effectiveness of 40.57 dB, primarily through the electromagnetic reflection mechanism. Moreover, the PBFDO8-TPU conductive composites exhibit remarkable thermal management capabilities. Within a voltage of 2.5 V, the Joule heater can maintain a stable temperature of 100 °C. Lastly, the flexible sensor constructed using this conductive composite is capable of accurately monitoring minute strains associated with human physiological activities.