Faraday Fabric - Shielding Solutions

It isn’t necessary to subscribe to theories surrounding 5G to desire a reduction in the amount of radiation one is exposed to daily. A common method for blocking radiation involves utilizing a Faraday cage, however, these are typically constructed from metal mesh, which limits their practicality for regular use. Researchers at Drexel University have successfully developed a Faraday fabric by integrating a material known as MXene into standard cotton – suggesting a more comfortable alternative to conventional shielding methods is on the horizon.

Faraday cages function by preventing the passage of radio frequency radiation through specific metals. Importantly, the metal doesn’t require a solid form to be effective; a cage-like structure or a flexible mesh will suffice due to the nature of the radiation’s wavelength. Numerous facilities employ these types of materials to prevent external radiation from disrupting precise measurements. More recently, companies such as Silent Pocket have incorporated meshes into bags and cases designed to completely isolate devices from external signals.

It’s important to acknowledge that concerns about RF radiation are often rooted in caution rather than established harm. The levels and frequencies we encounter are not considered dangerous, and the FCC regulates devices to ensure they remain within safe limits. However, there’s also the potential for devices to connect to public Wi-Fi networks without adequate security, potentially exposing MAC addresses to other devices, and generally interacting with the surrounding environment in ways that may be undesirable. Ultimately, given the prevalence of radiation-emitting devices, many individuals might appreciate a means of reducing their exposure as a precautionary measure.

Achieving this could become significantly easier in the coming years, as Yury Gogotsi and his team at the Drexel Nanomaterials Institute – where he serves as director – have devised a technique for coating textile fibers with a metallic compound. This creates an effective Faraday cage while maintaining the fabric’s flexibility, durability, and washability.

The material, designated as MXene, is actually a classification encompassing a range of compounds, and has been the focus of extensive research by the team, with this application representing their latest innovation.

“We have long understood that MXene possesses superior electromagnetic interference blocking capabilities compared to other materials, but this finding demonstrates its ability to effectively bond with fabrics and retain its distinctive shielding properties,” stated Gogotsi in a press release. A video showcasing the fabric’s functionality can be viewed here.

Image Credits: Drexel University

MXenes are conductive compounds composed of metal and carbon, and can be produced in various forms, including solids, liquids, and sprays. In this instance, it’s utilized as a liquid – a solution of microscopic MXene flakes that readily adhere to the fabric, creating a Faraday effect that blocks 99.9% of RF radiation during testing. Even after a period of two years, the treated fabric retained 90% of its effectiveness, and it remains safe to wash and wear.

While wearing a full suit of this material might not be practical, it would facilitate the inclusion of RF-blocking pockets in garments like jackets, jeans, or laptop bags without compromising the overall aesthetic. A hat (or undergarments) incorporating a layer of this fabric would likely be well-received by those interested in shielding technologies.

Although widespread availability is still some time away, Gogotsi expressed optimism regarding the material’s commercial potential, highlighting that Drexel University holds multiple patents related to the material and its applications. Further advancements in infusing fabrics with MXenes could also lead to the development of clothing capable of generating and storing energy.

Further details regarding this specific application of MXenes can be found in the journal Carbon.