Theoretical modelling of electromagnetic field radiation profile for cellular transmission tower

Abstract

Electromagnetic waves are generally perceived to be harmful because of the radiation they produce and may result to numerous health issues such as depression, cancer, brain tumour, chronic fatigue syndrome, insomnia, suppressed immune function and more. Electromagnetic field (EMF) radiation from antennas used either for radio and television broadcast transmissions or wireless telecommunication transmissions such as cellular signals result in certain exposure levels on the ground. The levels of this radiation continue to increase due to more wireless systems. There is inadequate evidence regarding environmental exposures from transmitters, including television, radio, and military transmissions as well as mobile phone networks, due to lack of high-quality studies with accurate individual exposure assessment. There is very little work done by independent bodies to collect actual data and to accurately model the profile of the EMF radiation level surrounding cellular towers since the emergence of the 4G LTE technology in Malaysian environment. In this project, a mathematical model has been developed, using Maxwell’s equations and Helmholtz’s wave equations to determine power density of electromagnetic waves at discrete point from a source at different distances from the point of propagation. The equations were simulated using MATLAB software to show graphical representation and profile of power density which shows a continuous attenuation of the waves as opposed to uniform propagation in free space.