Low-frequency electric fields at smartphone surface

Authors: Voccio J, Seredinski A, Song J, Khabari A, Chuery M, Oshman H, Mujica PS

Year: 11/01/2023

Category: Electronics

Journal: AIP Advances

DOI: 10.1063/5.0169965

URL: https://pubs.aip.org/aip/adv/article/13/11/115213/2921825

Abstract

Overview

Mobile phones, tablets, and other devices equipped with capacitive touchscreens are prevalent across global populations. Understanding the battery health and potential public health impacts associated with these devices is critical.

Findings

This study focuses on the alternation current (AC) electric field emitted near touchscreen surfaces during device charging. Investigations were conducted using a Trifield TF2 meter to determine magnitude and a Faraday pickup coil to measure frequency. The research was performed on an Apple iPhone 8, significantly measuring the AC electric fields within the frequency range of 0–200 kHz, which is considerably lower than frequencies used for cellular communication. The results indicated a substantial frequency content and an integrated magnitude of approximately 500 V/m rms in certain charging scenarios.

Conclusion

  • The presence of AC electric fields, primarily generated by the lithium-ion battery.
  • These electric fields were absent during charging via a portable power bank, suggesting a direct relationship with standard charging methods.
AC electric fields mobile phones touchscreen battery health electromagnetic safety
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