Characterization of PVA composites for EMI shielding using waste jackfruit husk biocarbon and Plectranthus amboinicus extracted cobalt nanoparticle

This study presents the synthesis and characterization of flexible polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composites enriched with jackfruit biocarbon (JFBC) and cobalt nanoparticles (CoNPs) for potential electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications. The cobalt nanoparticles were extracted from Plectranthus amboinicus using the thermo-chemical method. The composites were fabricated using a solution casting method, and their mechanical, dielectric, magnetic, and EMI shielding properties were comprehensively investigated. Mechanical analysis revealed that the incorporation of JFBC and CoNPs significantly enhanced the tensile strength of the PVA matrix. It is noted that PVB4 demonstrates the highest tensile strength among the composite designations, measuring at 63 MPa, along with an elongation percentage of 110. Similarly, composite designation PVB6 delivers higher dielectric properties, thus varying the JFBC and CoNP content, making them suitable for EMI shielding applications. Moreover, the magnetic characterization demonstrated that the inclusion of CoNPs imparted magnetic properties to the composites of about 445.56×10–6emu of saturation magnetization. Similarly, EMI shielding tests resulted remarkable EMI shielding effectiveness for PVB6 and exhibit 46.8 dB for the E band and 53.1 dB for the F band, respectively. Thus, the synergistic effect of JFBC and CoNPs within the flexible PVA matrix presents a promising avenue for the development of lightweight, flexible, and environmentally friendly EMI shielding materials.