Two-layer radio-frequency shielding sandwich structures based on irregular microgrids

Subject of study. This study investigated the spectral properties of silver irregular microgrids (AgIMGs) and sandwich structures in the visible and radio frequency (RF) ranges. AgIMGs were fabricated using a self-assembled template formed by cracking a thin film of egg white. Aim of study. The aim of this study was to develop a method for producing AgIMGs with a thickness exceeding 500 nm, low surface resistance, and high optical transmittance in the visible range. Additionally, sandwich structures based on such microgrids that demonstrate a shielding effectiveness (SE) of at least 60 dB in the RF range were fabricated. Main results. A method for locally peeling off the perimeter (CPP) of self-organized template cells has been developed. It allows for an increase in the thickness of the deposited silver to more than 500 nm. Increasing the thickness of the deposited metal is a critical factor for improving the optoelectric characteristics of AgIMG. Two-layer sandwich structures were obtained based on our AgIMG. Sandwich structures consisting of irregular silver microgrids based on a template with a partially peeled off perimeter of the cells show an SE of 71.01 dB in the range of 1–7 GHz with a transmission value of 80.02% in the visible range. Practical significance. Sandwich structures based on AgIMGs formed on a template with a partially detached cell perimeter are a promising solution for shielding optically transparent objects and information display devices. The sandwich structures developed in this study outperform existing optically transparent RF-shielding screens in terms of the combined parameters of SE, optical transmittance, and production cost. © 2025 Optica Publishing Group.