Analysis of Electromagnetic Wave Propagation in Human Tissue

Abstract

This paper reports the analysis of EM wave propagation in human tissue, with specific reference to radio-frequency wave propagation. Maxwell’s equation is applied to analyse and model the behaviour of the EM wave as it transits from the free-space as a source-free region into human tissue. Maxwell’s equations have never been used in this manner before. The transmitted wave is theoretically followed into the human skin. Measured electric fields from GSM towers and frequencies used by the four major wireless service providers in Nigeria, coupled with the modelled equation for the transmitted wave in the skin are used to simulate the wave propagation in the tissue. MATLAB software, a versatile engineering tool is used to simulate the propagation model in human tissue. Measurement of the EM wave radiated by some sources into free-space is carried out. Results obtained from computation using the developed propagation model in human tissue are compared with standards and existing results. Results show that the EM wave radiating around our immediate environment and hitting our skin does not travel deep into our body. The frequencies used by these GSM network providers for 3G and 4G transmission are low and do not possess enough energy to cause damage to the tissue.

Keywords — Analysis, Electromagnetic, Wave Propagation, Human Tissue