Shields are often needed when an application requires limits in electromagnetic interference/radio frequency interference (EMI/RFI) or to fabricate low-voltage circuitry. Shields are material around a conductor or a group of conductors that limit these factors.
There are several options to consider with flexible circuits:
Solid Copper: Solid copper is the most common method of shielding. Copper shield can be put on one or both sides of the circuit. Solid copper can also cover selective conductors. Solid copper shields increase the rigidity of the circuit, and should be included in the thickness to bend radius ratios.
Crosshatched Copper: Crosshatching is an artwork design that relieves much of the copper shield areas by the use of a pattern. Crosshatch shielding can also cover selective conductors. It helps the circuit to retain its flexibility and can be put on one or both sides.
Conductive Silver: Conductive silver can be substituted for copper for shielding purposes in some applications. Silver can be a solid or crosshatched shield and can be put on one or both sides of the circuit. It can also cover selected conductors only. Silver shielding is not recommended for dynamic flexing applications due to its brittle characteristic, and may be prone to cracking in severe bending applications.
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