Thinner than hair and stretchable like rubber, this new shield tackles a space-age problem in one layer

by National Research Council of Science and Technology

Shielding materials are essential in key modern industrial settings—such as spacecraft, nuclear power plants, semiconductor equipment, and advanced medical devices—to protect both equipment and personnel from electromagnetic waves and radiation. In particular, as space exploration gains momentum—such as with the successful launch of Artemis 2 on the 2nd—the importance of next-generation shielding technology capable of withstanding extreme environments is growing.

However, electromagnetic waves and neutron radiation, which can cause malfunctions in key components like semiconductors, have different characteristics and must be blocked using distinct materials. This has historically led to issues such as increased weight and structural complexity. These limitations pose an even greater burden on the space industry.

To address this challenge, a research team led by Dr. Joo Yong-ho at the Extreme Environment Shielding Materials Research Center of the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) has proposed a new solution.

The team has developed the world's first innovative composite shielding material that can simultaneously block electromagnetic waves and neutrons using a single ultra-thin film—thinner than a human hair—while also being stretchy like rubber and suitable for 3D printing. The study is published in the journal Advanced Materials.

Material Composition and Performance

The key to this newly developed material lies in the combination of two types of nanotubes. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which are highly conductive, absorb and reflect electromagnetic waves, while boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs), rich in boron, effectively capture neutrons.

As the two materials naturally form a "shell structure" where they envelop each other, a single film is now capable of simultaneously blocking both types of hazards. As a result, the material achieves performance that blocks 99.999% of electromagnetic waves and reduces neutrons by approximately 72%, even at a thickness thinner than a human hair.

Its technical sophistication is also noteworthy. This material possesses exceptional elasticity, maintaining its performance even when stretched to more than twice its original length, and can be 3D-printed into various shapes, such as honeycomb structures.

Enhanced Shielding Performance

It has been confirmed that the honeycomb structure offers up to 15% better shielding performance than flat materials of the same thickness. Furthermore, it has proven durability, withstanding temperatures ranging from -196°C to 250°C, making it suitable for stable use even in extreme environments such as space.

This research opens up new possibilities across the entire industry. With the ability to simultaneously block electromagnetic waves and radiation using a single material, it has become possible to achieve both simplified design and weight reduction across various fields, including satellites, space stations, nuclear facilities, cancer treatment equipment, and wearable protective gear.

The design of customized shielding structures combined with 3D printing is a core technology that will transform the paradigms of the space, energy, and medical industries in the future.

Industry Implications

Dr. Joo Yong-ho of KIST stated, "This material represents a completely new concept in shielding technology—it is as thin as tape and as flexible as rubber, yet simultaneously blocks both electromagnetic waves and radiation."

He added, "This technology is significant for securing the advanced materials and establishing the domestic production infrastructure necessary for realizing the space age. We plan to further enhance its performance through structural design optimization and actively pursue its application in actual industrial settings."

Conclusion

This innovative shielding material not only represents a significant step forward in material science but also lays the groundwork for advanced applications in the fields of aerospace, medicine, and beyond. As industries continually seek ways to improve safety and functionality, this technology showcases the potential of combining nanotechnology with practical engineering.

References

• Flandy et al. (2026). Ultrathin, Stretchable, and 3D‐Printable Complementary Nanotubes–Polymer Composites for Multimodal Radiation Shielding in Extreme Environments. Advanced Materials. DOI: 10.1002/adma.202513805