Experimental and numerical investigation on conductive concrete for Electromagnetic pulse shielding

Electromagnetic (EM) radiation is generated naturally or artificially by weapons capable of affecting the power grid and modern electronic devices, in turn, a threat to the nation's defence, hospitals and communication systems. In this regard, the present study focused on designing and developing electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding cement-based concrete using locally available materials. The shielding effectiveness (in dB) of conductive concrete was assessed using a newly designed and fabricated metallic testing chamber with a monopole antenna (1.46 GHz) and a vector network analyser. Maximum shielding effectiveness of 36 dB was achieved experimentally in conductive concrete with magnetite and graphite aggregates and 2% steel fibres. The conductive concrete developed has higher (around 3 times) shielding effectiveness compared to normal concrete of similar compressive strength ranges. In addition, a simulation study was carried out to predict the shielding effectiveness of the developed conductive concrete with the aid of CST microwave studio simulation software and validated with experimental results. Further, the durability of the conductive concrete was assessed and observed to have low permeability and porosity. The research outcome of this study will contribute as a stepping stone toward the design and development of conductive concrete against electromagnetic interference.