Assessment of the Variability of Human Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields Arising from 5.9 GHz Vehicular Communication in Urban Environments

Authors: Tognola G, Benini M, Bonato M, Gallucci S, Parazzini M

Year: 2023

Category: Environmental Health

Journal: Sensors

DOI: 10.3390/s23156802

URL: https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/23/15/6802

Abstract

Overview

This study addresses the pressing health implications of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields generated by vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication in urban environments.

Findings

  • The research incorporates a novel hybrid procedure merging deterministic and stochastic methods, designed to measure whole-body specific absorption rate (SAR) across various urban layouts.
  • Different road user positions ranging from 1.5 to 300 meters from the source were analyzed, covering a spectrum from children to adults.
  • The median SAR was found to be approximately 0.70 mW/kg, which is consistently low, but with an alarming increase in SAR levels in the less massive, typically child models, reaching up to 73 mW/kg in worst-case scenarios.
  • Implications of multiple vehicles and antennas on SAR were also explored, noting significant variability with increased number of transmitting vehicles.

Conclusion

Despite SAR levels generally staying below the safety limits, the highest doses absorbed by children highlight potential areas of concern, indicating a need for continuous monitoring and regulation of radiofrequency emissions, especially in dense urban areas where vehicular communication systems are prevalent.

electromagnetic fields radiofrequency urban environments vehicle-to-vehicle communication SAR health risks exposure assessment
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