In today’s interconnected world, the rapid development of communication technology and electronics industries has changed the way we live, work and communicate. However, these advances come with their own challenges, especially the increasing concern about electromagnetic pollution. This invisible form of pollution is a byproduct of electronic devices’ proliferation, raising alarms about potential health risks and environmental impacts. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, a groundbreaking study delves into the unique properties of rare earth elements, often referred to as “the vitamin of industry.” These elements have become beacons of hope, showing great hope in their contribution to the development of cutting-edge electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbing materials.
The team of researchers at Shandong University, including Professor Wei Liu, Dr. Jirong Liu, Dr. Lutong Li, Jing Qiao, Na Wu and Fan Wu, is led by visionary professor Zhihui Zeng. Their comprehensive study has now been published in the prestigious Journal of Materials Science and Technology, which provides inspiring insights into advances in EMW absorbing materials, mainly due to the strategic nature of strategically including rare earth elements.
The study highlights a novel approach: doping materials with rare earth elements and constructing complex rare earth oxide composites. These innovative approaches demonstrate great potential to create efficient EMW absorbent materials. This material is crucial in mitigating the adverse effects of electromagnetic pollution, thus ensuring a safe environment for all.
This study further studies, dividing rare earth EMW absorbing materials into different groups. These include rare earth-doped ferrite, rare earth transfer intermetallic metals and multifunctional rare earth oxides. Each category is supported by rigorous research and experiments, and stands out with its unique characteristics, advantages and absorption mechanisms. “Integration of rare earth elements into these materials has unlocked a new horizon for absorption efficiency,” Dr. Zhu Long said.
Furthermore, this study did not shirk away from solving the challenges faced by the field, and highlighted potential pathways for future exploration and development. The team believes that through continuous research and innovation, the potential applications of rare earth elements in various industries may be unlimited.
Professor Zhihui Zeng said: “Rare earth elements have been proven to be a sustainable solution that improves the efficiency of absorbing materials and provides sustainable solutions.”
In short, as the world responds to the multifaceted challenges of electromagnetic pollution, the findings of this study are guiding light. Rare earth elements have unparalleled properties and have become game changers in the field of electromagnetic wave absorption. Their potential to revolutionize absorbent materials underscores the importance of ongoing research in this field, a future where sustainable solutions prioritize human health and environmental well-being.
Journal Reference
Jing Qiao, Lutong Li, Jirong Liu, Na Wu, Wei Liu, Fan Wu, Zhihui Zeng, “The critical application of rare earths in future high-performance electromagnetic wave absorption materials is crucial.” Journal of Materials Science and Technology, 2024. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmst.2023.09.003
About the Author
Professor Zhii Zeng Since May 2021, he has been working as a professor in the School of Materials Science and Engineering of Shandong University. He received his bachelor’s degree. He is a master’s degree in electrical engineering from Henan University of Technology, followed by a doctorate degree. From Beijing Technical University. Later, he received another Ph.D. Doctor of Materials Science and Engineering from the National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. His research focuses on the development of electromagnetic wave absorbing materials and three-dimensional porous carbon materials
