In this short paper we investigate quantum gravitational effects on
Einstein's equations using effective field theory techniques. We consider the
leading order quantum gravitational correction to the wave equation...Besides
the usual massless mode, we find a pair of modes with complex masses. These
massive particles have a width and could thus lead to a damping of
gravitational waves if excited in violent astrophysical processes producing
gravitational waves such as e.g. black hole mergers. We discuss the
consequences for gravitational wave events such as GW 150914 recently observed
by the Advanced LIGO collaboration.(read more)