Researchers at PNIPU Unveil a Green, Durable Coating to Absorb Electromagnetic Waves
A team from the Perm National Research Polytechnic University has introduced a resilient and environmentally friendly coating based on thermally expanded graphite. The university’s press service described the invention as a device capable of soaking up unwanted electromagnetic radiation, offering practical applications across both military and civilian sectors. The development signals a new approach to shielding that blends performance with sustainability, a priority for many industries in North America today as well as in Europe and beyond [PNIPU press release].
In practical terms, the coating uses a highly porous, powdery form of thermally expanded graphite embedded in a composite base. Its physical and mechanical robustness, along with chemical and thermal stability, makes it possible to press the material into shapes and densities suitable for a wide range of products. This graphite form can scatter infrared radiation, a property that had not been exploited for shielding applications until recently, opening doors to lighter, more adaptable protective layers without sacrificing structural integrity [PNIPU overview].
Experts emphasize the coating’s strong adhesion and versatility. It adapts well to different fabrics such as cotton, fiberglass, acetate, and carbon-based textiles, enabling textiles and fabrics to carry protective qualities without sacrificing comfort or flexibility. Tests conducted with a thermal imaging camera produced clear visuals of the coating’s shielding effectiveness, confirming that fabrics treated with this protective blend can dissipate heat while reducing electromagnetic exposure. A PNIPU materials science student, Andrey Myakshin, noted that the fabric layer can be as thin as 0.5 millimeters while delivering meaningful protection, highlighting the coating’s potential for lightweight, wearable shielding solutions [PNIPU materials report].
Beyond protecting military hardware, the material shows promise for consumer electronics. Protective cases for phones, smartwatches, and other devices can be enhanced with this coating to obscure device location in sensitive environments where concealment matters. The ability to integrate shielding into everyday items could redefine how people think about privacy and safety in public and professional settings [PNIPU practical applications brief].
The research builds on PNIPU’s ongoing work in materials science and environmental technology. The team emphasizes that the coating is not just a single-use layer but part of a broader strategy to combine high performance with ecological responsibility. The porous graphite acts as a lightweight shield, absorbing and dispersing stray electromagnetic waves without adding significant weight or bulk. This aligns with a growing demand among industries in Canada and the United States for radiation protection that does not compromise aesthetics or wearability [PNIPU research notes].
In related progress, the institution has recently reported advances in other environmental technologies, including a biological approach to wastewater treatment that targets toxic phenols. This broader program reflects PNIPU’s commitment to developing practical solutions with real-world impact across sectors such as energy, manufacturing, and public health [PNIPU science updates].