[Bioelectromagnetic studies: an analysis of errors in evaluation of electromagnetic field exposure]

This paper presents a review of exposure systems used in biomedical studies. Typical exposure systems of the whole frequency range are described. The attention was paid to technical limitations of applicability of the discussed exposure systems and the problem of correlation between the study results obtained in closed (TEM cell) and free spaces. Computer simulations of power absorbed by investigated objects with different numerical methods were made. As presented estimations show, electromagnetic energy absorption may differ between individual objects. The difference is a function of the system dimension and the number of exposed objects. Moreover, the energy distribution in a single object is a function of the frequency, system dimension, and placement of the object in relation to field vectors, not mentioning individual properties of the object. The presented results undermine the interpretation of the results of biomedical investigations carried out with use of closed exposure systems. Even if all inaccuracies and approximations in presented estimations are taken into account, the significance of mutual interactions between tested objects and exposure systems raises no doubts. Therefore, an attempt should be made to re-interpret the results of biomedical studies and to develop a closer cooperation between physicians and engineers.