Nonuniform Exposure to the Cornea from Millimeter Waves

Abstract

Overview

This study investigates the impact of nonuniform exposure to millimeter waves on the cornea, focusing on the temperature increases and possible thresholds for corneal damage when exposed to high-intensity mm-wave pulses.

Findings

• Investigation based on high-resolution simulations assessing mm-wave absorption and the consequent temperature increase due to exposure at 100 GHz.
• Reported temperature increase variations due to wave interference effects, with peak temperatures reaching 1.7-2.8 times the median values depending on the polarization.
• Examination on thresholds for thermal lesions from brief exposures (<10 s), with insights derived both from models used in pulsed infrared energy and a specific thermal damage model.
• Highlighted concerns that mm-wave pulses in the study greatly exceed accepted IEEE or ICNIRP exposure limits, linking the potential for use in nonlethal weapons systems.
• Discussion of nonuniform absorption impact, potential for thermal damage to the eyelids, and the need for hazard analysis in various exposure environments.

Conclusion

The research underscores significant health risks associated with nonuniform and high-intensity exposures to millimeter waves, stressing the importance of adherence to regulatory limits to mitigate potential harm. Interference effects and their impact on localized energy absorption are critical in assessing safety thresholds for millimeter wave exposure.