Cellphone blocking paint

A new development in RF shielding could spell regulatory problems for the FCC. This, after a Rochester, New York, company called Natural Nano announces that it has developed paint that can switch between blocking cell phone signals and allowing them through.

Amateur Radio Newsline's Bruce Tennant, K6PZW, told us that according to the Chicago Tribune, the new cellphone blocking paint works this way. Using nano-technology, particles of copper are inserted into nanotubes. The painted surface is then connected to radio filtering gear that permits certain frequencies to pass while blocking others.

One example where the product could be beneficial. He says that a concert hall could use the paint to allow cell phones to work before an event and during breaks, but block their use during the performance.

Science Online says proponents of the blocking paint claim that it does not jam cellphones. Rather it uses its natural properties of clay to block specific signals. Therefore it would be exempt from any FCC rules governing cellphone jamming devices. They also say that nobody can force the owner of private property to let commercial radio signals intrude.

The bottom line: If the cellphone blocking paint catches on, this one could be headed straight to the US federal courts.

While this product could pose some serious regulatory issues for the FCC, some hams discussing it on the air hope the company will realise that there may be a market in Amateur Radio for painting away TVI.

Sources: WIA, ARNewsLine

• Read more at the NaturalNano website

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