Research

Project Title:
Measurement of the dielectric properties of biological tissue at microwave frequencies

Start Date:
January 2002

Expected Date of Completion:
December 2004

Cost:
£408,000

Principal Investigator:
Dr Camelia Gabriel

Contact Details:
MCL
17B Woodford Road
London
E18 2EL
UK

Expertise:

MCL is an internationally-recognised independent scientific research and consultancy organisation specialising in the interaction of electromagnetic fields with people. MCL undertakes a wide range of work for the European Union, the UK Government, Local Authorities, schools and businesses as well as having its own scientific research programme.

MCL is a recognised centre of expertise in dielectric measurement.

Approach:

Detailed knowledge of the dielectric properties of biological tissues is essential if the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with the body is to be understood, quantified and interpreted.

This project deals with the determination of the dielectric properties of human and animal tissues in the mobile telecommunications frequency range. The measurement programme is structured to provide the following information:

(i) data on the dielectric properties of porcine tissues and an assessment of the expanded uncertainty of the measurement,
(ii) any systematic variation of the dielectric properties as a function of age,
(iii) a study of the dielectric properties of skin on human volunteers.

This project addresses the specific IEGMP recommendation for improved dosimetry and it will enable better assessment of exposure of children and adults to electromagnetic fields from telecommunications systems.

Potential Difficulties:

MCL has a great deal expertise in dielectric measurements of biological materials. The difficulties of identifying and measuring a wide range of tissue types under practical measurement conditions have not been underestimated.

Importance:

This project addresses the specific IEGMP recommendation for improved dosimetry (1.57).

It will allow better assessment of exposure of adult and children and will impact on public health by providing statistical means to ascertain bounds in the assessment of exposure of a defined percentage of the population.