Performance assessment of magnetic polymeric composites for EMI reduction in small satellites

This study investigates the use of polymer composites filled with spherical and high-aspect-ratio flake-like carbonyl iron (CI) particles for electromagnetic interference (EMI) mitigation in small satellite cavities. Through 3D full-wave modeling, electromagnetic issues of Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TT&C) systems were assessed to find the optimal configuration for the CI-based composite, focusing on the S-band frequency used by TT&C devices. In order to optimize the permeability and permittivity properties of radio frequency materials, it was necessary to study the morphology and concentration of the particles. The results show significant EMI attenuation, with the highest-performing composite achieving a reduction of 7.38 dB in the victim unit's module. Comparison with a benchmark material highlights the enhanced effectiveness of higher permeability materials. This research demonstrates the potential of CI-based polymer composites for EMI attenuation in space applications, offering a lightweight, efficient solution to mitigate EMI challenges in modular satellite designs.