The rapid advancement of technology in recent years has led to an increased use of electromagnetic radiation in our daily lives. As a result, concerns have been raised about the potential health effects of exposure to electromagnetic fields. In order to better understand and mitigate these concerns, a research study titled “Measurement and Analysis of Electromagnetic Environment Characteristics on Wangjiang Campus of Sichuan University” was conducted at one of China’s most densely populated urban areas, the Wangjiang campus of Sichuan University. This study aimed to measure and analyze the electromagnetic environment (EME) characteristics on the campus and assess the compliance with regulatory exposure limits.

What are the electromagnetic environment characteristics on Wangjiang campus?

The Wangjiang campus of Sichuan University is a bustling hub of activity with a large population of students, faculty, and staff. In order to understand the electromagnetic environment characteristics of this densely populated area, the researchers conducted measurements during various times of the day and week, including daytime, nighttime, weekdays, and weekends. The focus of the study was on measuring the electric field (E-field) values along the main roads of the campus to obtain maps of the E-field spatial distribution.

The results of the study indicate that the electromagnetic environment on the Wangjiang campus is relatively stable. The electric field values were found to exhibit a lognormal distribution, which is a common statistical pattern observed in nature. This lognormal distribution was attributed to the depolarization phenomenon and polarization rotation caused by multipath propagation. Interestingly, the three orthogonal components of the E-field showed a high degree of similarity to each other, further supporting the depolarization and rotation effects.

How is the E-field spatial distribution measured?

The measurement of the E-field spatial distribution on the Wangjiang campus was conducted along the main roads using specialized equipment. By systematically collecting data at various points along these roads, the researchers were able to create detailed maps of the E-field spatial distribution. These maps provide valuable insights into the distribution of electromagnetic radiation within the campus, allowing for a better understanding of potential exposure levels and hotspots.

What is the time-varying characteristic of the EME?

In addition to studying the spatial distribution of the E-field, the researchers also investigated the time-varying characteristics of the electromagnetic environment. Measurements were taken at three different sites on the campus: the playground, laboratory, and student dormitory. By monitoring the E-field over time at these locations, the researchers gained insights into how the activities of the people on campus influence the E-field levels.

The results of the study suggest that there is a correlation between the E-field levels and human activities. For example, in areas with high human activity such as the playground, the E-field levels were found to be higher during daytime compared to nighttime. Similarly, activities in the laboratory and student dormitory were found to influence the E-field levels in those areas. These findings highlight the importance of considering human activities when assessing the electromagnetic environment in densely populated areas.

Are the E-field values within regulatory exposure limits?

One of the key objectives of the study was to assess the compliance of the measured E-field values with the regulatory exposure limits proposed by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). The results of the measurements on the Wangjiang campus consistently showed that the maximum E-field values were far below the regulatory exposure limits.

This finding is reassuring for the individuals on the Wangjiang campus and indicates that the current levels of electromagnetic radiation exposure on the campus are within safe limits. It should be noted that the ICNIRP exposure limits are designed to protect against known adverse health effects, and the compliance with these limits provides confidence in the safety of the electromagnetic environment.

Implications of the research

The research conducted on the Wangjiang campus of Sichuan University has several important implications. Firstly, the study provides valuable insights into the electromagnetic environment characteristics of a densely populated urban area. This information can be used to improve the understanding of potential exposure levels, identify hotspots, and implement targeted mitigation strategies if necessary.

Secondly, the finding of the E-field values being within regulatory exposure limits provides reassurance to the individuals on the campus. This highlights the importance of adhering to established guidelines and standards when it comes to electromagnetic radiation exposure. It also emphasizes the significance of ongoing monitoring and research to ensure that the safety standards continue to be met in the face of advancing technology.

Overall, this research contributes to a better understanding of the electromagnetic environment on the Wangjiang campus of Sichuan University and provides valuable insights into the potential risks and safety measures associated with exposure to electromagnetic radiation. By obtaining a comprehensive understanding of the EME characteristics, appropriate measures can be taken to create a safe and sustainable environment for the campus community.

Sources:

https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1029/2018RS006664