Statistical Analysis of RF-EMF Exposure Induced by Cellular Wireless Networks in Public Transportation Facilities of the Paris Regionx

Abstract

Overview

Wireless communications are increasingly used today. Despite such use, there is a significant perception of risk which makes exposure monitoring a significant concern today. The work described in this article was carried out within the framework of the European SEAWave project and the French Beyond5G project.

Methods

• The exposure assessment was evaluated using a personal exposimeter (MVG EMF Spy), chosen for its compactness and portability compared to traditional measuring systems.
• Measurements targeted cellular frequency bands (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G) and Wi-Fi across various public transportation methods (RER, metro, tramway, bus, train) in the Paris region.
• Data were analyzed by frequency band, transport type, and environment, with statistical evaluation: mean, standard deviation, skewness, kurtosis.

Findings

For 700, 800, 900, 1800, 2100, 2600, and 3500 MHz frequency bands, the overall average exposure values were recorded as 0.39, 0.43, 0.30, 0.21, 0.18, 0.24, and 0.18 V/m, respectively.

• Significant dispersion was noted, as indicated by ratios of standard deviations to mean values.
• K-means clustering (k=3) was used to classify measurement subsets by statistical parameters.
• Cluster 1: Highest mean values, moderate variance, lowest third/fourth moments.
• Cluster 2: Large mean and variance, moderate skewness and kurtosis.
• Cluster 3: Smallest mean/variance, largest skewness/kurtosis.

Conclusion

The results highlight notable variability in RF-EMF exposure across public transport environments and network bands, with classification revealing important group patterns. This work supports ongoing monitoring and assessment of electromagnetic exposure, which is important for understanding possible health risks associated with wireless communications in highly frequented environments.