Optimal design of electromagnetic field exposure maps in large areas

Abstract

Overview

The mapping of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure over large areas is a highly valuable tool for the analysis of epidemiological data and risk assessment. Producing these maps requires a significant investment in measurements, and to optimize both the effort and accuracy, strategic site selection is crucial.

Methodology

• Combines radio wave propagation criteria with GIS methods.
• Employs a rectangular grid of 250 m sides, identifying emitters within the study area.
• Applies to both urban and rural locations while considering line-of-sight (LOS) to minimize required points.

Findings

• Estimated optimal measurement density: 8-10 points/km² in urban areas.
• Case study: 2.8 km² urban area within a 35.11 km² municipality, achieving 9.64 points/km² density.
• Failure to incorporate LOS leads to underestimation of EMF average values.
• Interpolation via ordinary stable kriging allows accurate mapping under LOS and non-LOS (N-LOS) conditions.
• Exposure maps improve public risk perception and provide an objective tool for EMF level assessment.

Conclusion

The proposed mapping methodology recommends dividing urban areas into 250 × 250 m² grids, performing measurements in each grid with EMF sources under LOS conditions, and using viewshed analysis for optimization. Perimeter measurements are also required for accurate interpolation. The study uses a 100 kHz to 3 GHz frequency range and follows a six-minute averaging criterion. Newer 5G signal exposure scenarios are yet to be mapped according to the latest ICNIRP recommendations.

Importantly, this research acknowledges that exposure maps can facilitate epidemiological correlation studies, including links between EMF exposure and tumor or disease statistics. This supports evidence-based risk assessment and public health protection regarding EMF exposure.