Researchers at the College of Engineering at the University of Connecticut (UConn) are actively working to better understand how different wave-absorbent materials can be used to reduce high-level exposure to electromagnetic (EM) wave radiation.
The research on reducing EM wave radiation exposure is highlighted in an article published in mid-October on the website of “UConn Today.” According to the article, Julia Valla, an associate professor in the chemical and biomolecular engineering department, along with her team of students, is evaluating how the use of ion-exchanged zeolites can support the absorption of EM wave radiation.
Under the partial sponsorship of the Air Force Office of Scientific Research, Valla is evaluating the structures of four separate zeolites, including Faujasite, Mordenite, Mordenite Framework Inverted, and Linde Type A, and assessing each structure for its absorption, reflection, and transmission characteristics. Valla and her team are then making small changes to each structure in order to improve its performance.
According to Valla, the objective behind the research is to identify the zeolite structure (or structures) that are most effective in absorbing EM wave radiation. Not only would the findings potentially help to reduce the potential impact of EM wave radiation exposure on humans, but they might also be used to provide additional radiation protection for military aircraft and naval vessels.
The article posted to the “UConn Today” website on the research to reduce wave radiation is available at https://today.uconn.edu/2025/10/uconn-engineering-researchers-reducing-wave-radiation/.