Frequency selective human-centric sub 6 GHz electromagnetic measurements in shopping mall

Abstract

Overview

Limiting human exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic fields in crowded indoor public spaces such as shopping malls is a crucial component of green and digital environment transformation. This study evaluates exposure levels through an extensive human-centric measurement campaign.

Findings

• Measurements were taken using three-axial frequency selective equipment.
• A total of 959,360 measurements were collected across different days and times.
• E-field strength, power density, and total exposure for frequency bands from 88 MHz to 5850 MHz were analyzed.
• Mobile technologies at 900 MHz and 1800 MHz were identified as main contributors.
• Weekday exposure averaged 0.39 V/m, while weekend exposure averaged 0.33 V/m.
• Highest observed values during weekdays were in 2G–3G band and Wi-Fi 2G.
• During the weekend, Wi-Fi 5G reached the highest observed value at 4.98 V/m.

Conclusion

This extensive three-month campaign revealed that personal exposure levels are generally higher during weekdays with 2G–3G mobile communications and Wi-Fi as significant contributors. Surprisingly, Wi-Fi was not the dominant source of exposure, contrary to initial expectations.