[Inefficiency of electrosmog-shielding mats. Part 2: radio frequency range].
It could already be shown that electromagnetic shielding mats do not reduce but even enhance electric field exposure in daily life situations. By measurements and numerical simulations the claims of manufacturers were checked who pretend that radio frequency electromagnetic fields can be shielded to 99% and more, and transferred to earth by earth cables (if attached). It could be shown that in the radio frequency range such products do not fulfil the justified expectations of customers, but in most cases even cause the opposite. The results depend on the electric properties of the material. Good electric conductivity of shielding mats even considerably increases electromagnetic field exposure. To connect the mats with earth potential by an attached cable might increase the beliefs on a protective effect, however, this is not capable to enhance the shielding effect. The investigation demonstrates that in spite of references made to experts opinions manufacturers claims about the shielding efficiency of radio frequency fields are misleading and fool clients about the real situation. Overall, acquisition and use of electrosmog shielding mats must be discouraged. If at all, shielding can be reached by placing a shielding cover between the source and the person. However, even in this case, efficiency is much lower than promised by manufacturers and decreases even more if it is taken into account that the head naturally remains uncovered and hence unshielded.
Leitgeb
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Institut für Krankenhaustechnik mit Europaprüfstelle für Medizinprodukte, Technische Universität Graz, Osterreich.
Cech
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D004574:Electromagnetic Fields; D004781:Environmental Exposure / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004867:Equipment Design; D004868:Equipment Failure; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D011835:Radiation Protection / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D011846:Radio Waves; D011874:Radiometry / Q000379:methods*