Just like other paper/plastic/aluminum (PPA) composites, Tetra Pak-package-material (Tetra Paks) has excellent water and vapor barrier abilities, and is widely used in food and beverage packaging industry. However, serious environmental problem follows due to its long service life. In this paper, a novel electromagnetic shielding composite board was developed with recycled Tetra Paks and copper-iron mixed fibers. The influence of Cu/Fe ratio and mat configuration on board shielding effectiveness (SE), volume resistivity (VR) and mechanical properties were investigated. The results showed that the boards with copper-iron mixed fiber layers showed better electromagnetic shielding performance than those with only iron or copper fiber layer. The SE of the boards was improved with higher copper fiber content. The location of the metal fiber layers in the mat had a significant influence on board electromagnetic shielding performance. A symmetrical sandwich structure was found beneficial to better shielding performance, and in the same condition of wave frequency and shielding material thickness, the shielding system with a Fe core exhibited better shielding performance than that with a Cu core. The ratio of Cu/Fe and the configuration of mat both had significant influences on mechanical properties of the boards. It can be concluded that qualified electromagnetic shielding composite board could be produced with Tetra Paks wastes and copper-iron mixed fibers. Showing both environmental and economic values, this type of board could be considered as an alternative material used in packaging, interior finish, furniture, and other applications.
Simulation study on mechanical properties of a sustainable alternative material for electric cable cover
