Introduction to EMFs and Cell Phones
Cell phones have become an integral part of our daily lives. However, cell phones also emit electromagnetic fields (EMFs) which some scientists suggest may have negative health effects when exposure is long-term. EMFs from cell phones can penetrate our bodies since their wavelengths are shorter than visible light. Though more research is still needed, many people use EMF shielding devices as a precautionary measure to reduce their cellular EMF exposure.
What are EMF Shielding Devices?
EMF shielding devices, sometimes called EMF protectors or blocking accessories, are accessories designed to reduce electromagnetic radiation emitted by cell phones and other electronic devices. There are different types of shielding devices available that work using various methods.
Phone Cases
Phone cases with EMF Shielding Technology built-in are one of the most common types of shielding devices. These cases are made with conductive materials designed to deflect electromagnetic waves emitted by the phone away from the body. Materials commonly used include conductive carbon, silver or copper fibers/mesh embedded between layers of non-conductive, protective material. Properly designed EMF blocking phone cases can reduce EMF exposure by up to 99% according to manufacturers.
Phone Shielding Stickers and Patches
Adhesive EMF shielding stickers and patches are another popular option. These small, thin stickers or patches have embedded conductive metallic layers that attach directly to the rear side of the phone, near the antenna area. Like phone cases, they work to deflect and ground EMF emissions away from the user. Phone shielding stickers are low profile and easy to apply but may not offer as much coverage as full phone cases.
Car Signal Boosters and Phone Wraps
For in-car use, some drivers use EMF shielding car mounts, window mounts or phone wraps that contain shielding materials. These accessories keep phones farther from the body in addition to attempting to reduce EMF exposure during driving when signal reception may be poorer, causing phones to emit stronger EMFs. Some also incorporate wireless signal boosters to improve call quality.
How Do EMF Shielding Devices Work?
All EMF shielding accessories aim to reduce cellular EMF emissions contacting the human body. However, the methods and materials used can vary. Here are some of the key technologies used:
– Conductive shielding: Materials with free-flowing electrons like silver, copper or carbon readily conduct electromagnetic waves away from the body instead of allowing waves to penetrate tissues.
– Reflection: Waves emitted by phones encounter a material that reflects them in the opposite direction instead of penetrating the body. Multiple thin metallic layers can enhance reflection.
– Absorption: Some fabrics or composites are treated with ingredients that convert electromagnetic energy into another form like heat that disperses harmlessly.
– Dissipation: By incorporating semiconductors or other materials into phone shields, excess energy from EMFs is dispersed as it travels through the shielding rather than being concentrated.
– Grounding: Shielding materials are often electrically connected to grounding elements, redirecting electromagnetic flux away from users.
Do EMF Shielding Devices Really Work?
While the technology behind EMF shielding accessories makes sense theoretically, research on their real-world ability to reduce cellular EMF exposure is limited. Most independent testing so far has found that high quality, well-designed shielding products can reduce EMFs by 30-60% on average depending on phone model and test conditions. Results may vary based on a product’s material makeup, geometry, and quality of construction. As with any technology, lower cost or poorly made shielding devices may not perform effectively. More research is still needed to determine practical long-term EMF reduction benefits. For concerned individuals, EMF blocking accessories provide a simple precautionary solution until scientific consensus on health risks emerges.
EMF Shielding Apparel and Personal Accessories
Beyond phone accessories, some companies now manufacture a variety of daily apparel and accessories fitted with EMF shielding technologies:
– EMF protection hats, caps, hoods and helmets contain embedded shielding fabrics to reduce head and brain EMF exposure.
– Shielding scarves, neckwarmers, and eyewear have conductive coatings or inserts for upper body, neck and eye area coverage.
– Clothing like EMF socks, gloves, and undershirts incorporate shielding threads or treatments into typical garment designs.
– Devices like EMF jewelry, smartwatch shields, and laptop sleeves provide personal shielding on the go.
The goal of shielded apparel is to provide an adjunct layer of EMF blocking protection beyond phone shields alone for users with higher daily cellular device usage or general EMF exposure concerns. As with phone-focused accessories, independent validation of real-world EMF reduction performance varies between personal shielding garment designs.
Economics of EMF Shielding Devices
The market for EMF reduction accessories has grown steadily in recent years due to heightened public awareness of EMF health issues and growing cellular device usage globally. While research continues, many users view EMF blocking gear as both a smart precaution and means to gain peace of mind regarding their invisible EMF exposures.
Today many high quality phone shielding cases, shields and personal accessories originate from Europe, China and North America. Pricing ranges widely based on materials used, but on average expect to pay $10-60 for phone case or sticker shields, and $30-150 for complete apparel ensembles depending on styles. As the marketplace expands and production costs decrease, cheaper yet still effective options have emerged. For concerned users, the relatively minor cost of shielding investments may be seen as worthwhile compared to unknown long-term health implications of unmitigated EMF exposures.
Cellular tech and EMF exposures are realities of modern life, yet concerns linger regarding possible long-term impacts to health. While the topic requires more objective study, EMF shielding accessories represent an increasingly common preventative solution used by individuals needing personalized protection. For concerned users, properly designed and well-made shielding technology provides peace of mind through its goal of mitigating factors within personal control. As EMF health science progresses, so too will the marketplace for innovative shielding solutions of growing interest to worldwide populations.
