Iran Occupational Health

Background and aims:  X-band microwave with 8-12.5 frequency range has various applications such as air control traffic, navy communication and etc. Uncontrolled exposure with microwave can lead to adverse effect on workers. Application of the shielding is superior control for prevention of microwave exposure.The aim of this study is production a new electromagnetic shielding for exposure control of X-band frequency by nano nickel oxide and epoxy resin.

Method: Nanocomposites prepared by epoxy resin and nano nickel oxide (7wt %) with 2, 4 and 6 mm thicknesses. Nanoparticles characterized by XRD and FESEM. Shielding effectiveness measured with vector network analyzer.

Results: The Average of shielding effectiveness for three thicknesses were 2.68, 5.09 and 5.35 dB respectively that were equivalent to 45.98, 69.01 and 70.87 attenuation percentage. Maximum attenuation (8.96 dB or 87.29 attenuation percentage) obtained by the nanocomposite with 6mm thickness at 8.51 GHz frequency. The Average of shielding effectiveness increased with increasing the thickness.

Conclusion: these nanocomposites could be used as appropriate shielding for exposure control of X-band frequency in workplace .Both Epoxy and nanocomposite with 6mm thicknesses are useful in specific frequency such as 8.52 and 8.51 GHz. However, According to economical and technical issues, nanocomposite with 4mm thickness is appropriate shield in this study. In according to required attenuation and economical benefit, attenuation matrix can be used for selecting the appropriate electromagnetic shield. Keyword: electromagnetic shielding, microwave, nanocomposite, nickel oxide, epoxy, radiation