Numerical dosimetry of specific absorption rate of insects exposed to far-field radiofrequency electromagnetic fields

Abstract

Overview

This study explores the specific absorption rates (SAR) of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on adult insects across a wide range of radio frequencies, focusing on the potential biological impacts and variations influenced by insect morphology.

Purpose

The research aimed to assess the SAR in various tissues of insects, including brains, when exposed to EMF from 2.5 to 100 GHz to evaluate possible biological effects. Key subjects included various insects like ladybugs, honey bees, wasps, and mantises.

Method

• Insects modeled as three-tissue heterogeneous dielectric objects.
• Uses finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method for simulation.
• EMF exposure modeled with sinusoidal plane waves at single frequencies for far-field exposure.

Results

Key findings highlight significant SAR variations across different tissues and frequencies:

• High SAR levels observed at 6, 12, and 25 GHz, except ladybug brain tissue peaking at 60 GHz.
• Differentiation in SAR values depending on the orientation of the E-field polarization relative to the insect's body.

Conclusion

The conclusions underline the variability of EMF absorption across different insect tissues, significantly affected by frequency, polarization, and morphology. This study is notable for being among the first to provide a comprehensive set of data on SAR in insects across a broad range of RF frequencies used in modern and future technologies, including 5G.