Abstract

Overview

Restrictions on human exposure to electromagnetic waves, particularly at frequencies higher than 3-10 GHz, are principally defined by the incident power density to mitigate excessive temperature increases in superficial tissue layers.

Findings

• The study utilized the finite-difference time-domain method to simulate far-field exposure scenarios involving the human face to pulses shorter than 10 seconds, within the 6 to 100 GHz frequency range.
• Application of the bioheat transfer equation for thermal modeling helped assess the variable effects of frequency, polarization, exposure duration, and depth below the skin surface on temperature elevation.
• The investigation elucidates that current guidelines may inadequately limit temperature rise for brief pulsed exposures, introducing the potential usage of radiant exposure to rectify this limitation.

Conclusion

Significant findings reveal discrepancies in the non-uniform energy absorption, stressing the need for revised human exposure guidelines that effectively address the nuances of pulsed exposure scenarios at higher frequencies. These results serve as a crucial reference for developing future safety standards.