Introduction and Classification of Radiation
Page: 1-20 (20)
Author: Muhammad Maqbool*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815136890123010005
PDF Price: $30
Abstract
We interact with several types of radiation in our daily life and on certain
occasions. Even though all radiation carries some common properties but there are still
several differences between them due to different characteristics and effects. Based on
the characteristics and applications, radiation is divided into two main categories:
ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. A brief introduction to both types of radiation is
provided here. Similarities and differences in radiation are discussed in detail to justify
why nonionizing radiation is different than ionizing radiation. Very little has been
explored; nonionizing radiation needs more attention. Therefore, more emphasis is put
on nonionizing radiation, its properties, classification, wavelength, and energy range,
and why nonionizing radiation plays an important role in our lives, which are reported
here.
Types of Non-Ionizing Radiation and its Interaction with Matter
Page: 21-37 (17)
Author: Bushra Intakhab and Muhammad Maqbool*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815136890123010006
PDF Price: $30
Abstract
We encounter radiation in our daily life. Emission or transmission of energy
in the form of waves or particles is known as radiation. There are two types of radiation
– ionizing and non-ionizing. The types and interactions of non-ionizing radiation with a
medium, materials, or body tissue are discussed in this chapter. Non-ionizing radiation
has less energy than ionizing radiation; it does not possess enough energy to produce
ions or ionize body tissues and cells. Non-ionizing radiation includes Static fields,
ultrasound, and a part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Sunlight, mobile phones, the
earth’s magnetic field and electrical appliances are some of the common sources of
nonionizing radiation. Although these radiations have low energy, they have many
useful applications, especially in medicine. Non-ionizing radiations originate from
various natural and manmade sources. It has always been present and is all around us.
These radiations cannot destroy human tissues by ionizing body atoms, instead, they
can destroy body cells by excitations, heating, vibration, phonons generation, and
chemical changes because of the relatively low energy of the particles of nonionizing
radiation. Non-ionizing radiation has many beneficial applications, including uses in
agriculture, medicine, industry, and research. As the use of nonionizing radiation
increases, so does the potential for health hazards. In this chapter, we will look at non-ionizing radiation, the way it interacts with matter, and some of the potential biological
health effects produced by various types of non-ionizing radiation.
Electromagnetic Fields and Radiation
Page: 38-61 (24)
Author: Md. Kamal Hossain* and Mohammad R. Haider
DOI: 10.2174/9789815136890123010007
PDF Price: $30
Abstract
Electromagnetic radiation is a form of energy that comprises electric and
magnetic waves. It propagates in free space and contains neither mass nor charge but
carries energy as a photon packet. The energy associated with electromagnetic
radiation is directly proportional to the frequency from extremely low frequencies to
visible light and above. The highly low-frequency electromagnetic field is generated by
the electrical devices and power systems, while the radio and microwave signal radiates
by the mobile tower, microwave oven, heater, radar, etc. The extremely high-frequency
radiation emitted from medical devices, radioactive decay, nuclear weapons, etc.
Therefore, environmental exposure to electromagnetic radiation increases gradually
due to increasing electricity demands, advanced technologies, mobile communications,
etc. However, exposure to electromagnetic radiation has an adverse biological effect
depending on the current intensity, strength of the magnetic field, and duration of
exposure. This book chapter introduces electrostatics and magneto-statics, the
formation of electromagnetic fields and waves, frequency spectrum, source of
radiations, and their exposure limits.
Ultraviolet Radiation: Benefits, Harms, and Protection
Page: 62-108 (47)
Author: Jabari Robinson, Rahima Begum and Muhammad Maqbool*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815136890123010008
PDF Price: $30
Abstract
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is used in several devices for various applications.
These applications include medical, research and industrial uses. Some of these
applications are fundamental tools for our modern era. These applications range from
visualization of DNA to eradication of dangerous diseases and microorganisms in the
air and water. While UV radiation is not energetic enough to be considered ionizing
radiation and is treated as less hazardous, it is the form of non-ionizing radiation that is
closest to the ionization region. UV radiation does have the ability to break chemical
bonds and can pose significant hazards to humans. These hazards may include
discomfort, temporary loss of sight or impairment, permanent loss of sight, or cancer.
To mitigate the hazards from UV exposures, the hazards must be assessed, and
administrative controls and engineering controls should be utilized. Federal regulations
and guidance regarding UV hazard assessment and mitigation for the end-users of UV
devices are not currently robust, but the American Conference of Governmental
Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) has provided some useful information for assessment.
Visible Light: Benefits and Harms
Page: 109-139 (31)
Author: Robert Heath and Muhammad Maqbool*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815136890123010009
PDF Price: $30
Abstract
Electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength between 380 nm and 760 nm is
called visible light. Electromagnetic radiation within the mentioned wavelength range
is called visible because we can see the world around us with the help of this radiation.
A misconception usually exists that light is visible and exists in multiple colors. Light
is not visible; it gives the feeling and sensation of various colors. For example, light
with a wavelength of 450 nm gives the sensation of blue color, and light with a
wavelength of 530 nm gives the sensation of green color; hence, we simply call it blue
and green light. Light is very useful in our daily lives in many areas other than just
seeing the world around us. Despite the enormous benefits of visible light, there are
also some harms and hazards associated with this part of electromagnetic waves. Along
with the basic understanding of daily life phenomena based on light and several
benefits of light, this chapter also reports harms and hazards accompanied by visible
light that we should be aware of and should protect ourselves from. Several examples
of the hazards of visible light are provided in this chapter
Laser and Safety from Laser Beams
Page: 140-202 (63)
Author: Hatem Aldeeb and Muhammad Maqbool*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815136890123010010
PDF Price: $30
Abstract
A laser is an intense and amplified beam of light that is used in many
applications. The use of lasers in medicine, astronomy, industries, defense, information
technology, and oceanography is common and known to many people. The use of
lasers in eye treatment, especially the technique of LASIK in eye surgery, shows the
successful use of lasers in many fields. However, along with so many outstanding
benefits, the intense beam of visible or invisible light also brings many complications
while handling laser beams. Several harms and damages are associated with the use of
laser beams. Skin injuries and eye defects are common complications caused by laser
beams. If proper shielding and safety protocols are not followed, a laser can bring
many harms ranging from minor skin irritations to blindness of the eyes. This chapter
reports the benefits as well as harms and hazards associated with the use of laser
beams. A detailed description of the harms associated with various classes of lasers is
provided here. For the safe use of a laser beam, it is important to follow the established
rules and regulations. A detailed description and discussion of the hazards associated
with the use of laser beams, rules to be followed while using a laser beam, and laser
emergency protocols are reported here.
Infrared Radiation: Benefits, Hazards, and Protections
Page: 203-241 (39)
Author: Muhammad Maqbool*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815136890123010011
PDF Price: $30
Abstract
Infrared radiation falls on the electromagnetic spectrum between
microwaves and red visible light with a wavelength of ~750 nm-1 mm. Infrared
radiation is emitted from materials as heat and can be used for medical, industrial, and
military purposes. Infrared can be used to reduce swelling, increase tissue repair in
sports injuries and help treat patients with cardiovascular disease. The industrial sector
uses infrared tomography to image inside buildings, electrical equipment, and fuel
processing plants. There are few known harms when it comes to infrared radiation
effects. Infrared radiation can cause skin damage, eye damage, and greenhouse effects.
Not much research is known on the appropriate dosage or the body's response to doses
of infrared radiation. There are a few preventative ways to reduce the harm caused by
infrared radiation. People can follow the three cardinal rules of radiation and the
ALARA principle. They can also wear personal protection equipment when working or
around infrared radiation sources. People can also learn and try to help the planet by
reducing their carbon footprint to stop global warming from getting worse.
Microwaves and Radiofrequency Radiation: Benefits, Risks and Protection
Page: 242-291 (50)
Author: Ezequiel Gonzalez and Muhammad Maqbool*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815136890123010012
PDF Price: $30
Abstract
Radiofrequency and microwave radiation are part of the electromagnetic
spectrum. They occupy the lower end of the spectrum with respect to frequency and are
on the higher end with respect to wavelength. They have lower energy than the rest of
the forms of electromagnetic energy on the spectrum, and as a result, they do not have
enough energy to ionize the materials they irradiate. Radiofrequency and microwave
radiation have been used in many applications, including communications and the use
of radar to be able to predict weather patterns, medicine in both diagnostic and
therapeutic uses, and industry. A major development in recent years has been the
development of the 5G mobile network, which uses millimeter waves to transmit data
to and from mobile phones that operate in the radiofrequency region. However, the rise
of the 5G mobile network has many concerns that high exposures to these levels of
radiation can be harmful to humans. This has been a point of discussion in the past and
has led to decades of research into the potential health effects of radiofrequency and
microwave radiation on humans. Even with a large amount of research that has been
done, the health effects of radiofrequency and microwave radiation are still a highly
debated subject. The IARC classifies radiofrequency electromagnetic energy coming
off from mobile phones as a Group 2B substance, which means that it is not clear
whether it causes cancer. Overall, radiofrequency and microwave radiation can be
harmful, but research shows that it is mainly in the really high levels of exposure.
Oftentimes, the public does not come close to approaching the limits established from
the regulatory exposure limits set forth by various regulatory bodies around the world.
Radiation from Mobile Phones and Cell Towers, Risks, and Protection
Page: 292-325 (34)
Author: SAR Mortazavi, Kanu Megha, Seyedeh Fatemeh Shams, Sahar Mohammadi and SMJ Mortazavi*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815136890123010013
PDF Price: $30
Abstract
Modern life is strongly associated with new technologies such as
telecommunication and wireless devices. These new technologies strongly affect the
way people communicate, learn, train, think and solve their problems. Today, modern
cell phones not only send and receive phone calls, but they also allow people to send
and receive short messages, and e-mails, share photos and videos, write, edit and share
documents, play games, listen to music, watch movies, surf the Internet, find an
address using GPS (Global Positioning Systems) and use a wide range of applications.
Given this consideration, excessive use of smartphones is associated with growing
global concerns over the health effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) generated by these devices. As discussed by WHO, considering the very large
number of people who use mobile phones, even a small increase in the risk of adverse
health effects, either cancer or other health effects, could have key public health
implications. WHO believes that research about these health effects is mostly focused
on potential adverse effects of mobile phones, not their base stations, because the RF-EMF levels of mobile phones are 3 orders of magnitude higher than those of base
stations. Therefore, in this chapter, due to the greater likelihood of adverse health
effects of handsets, we mainly focused on reviewing the current scientific evidence on
health risks associated with mobile phones. However, the health effects of RF-EMF
exposure on people living in the proximity of mobile base stations are also reviewed.
Ultrasound and Human Body Safety
Page: 326-399 (74)
Author: Hina Arif-Tiwari*, Michael Craig Larson and Muhammad Maqbool
DOI: 10.2174/9789815136890123010014
PDF Price: $30
Abstract
Ultrasound is very safe when used at the diagnostic frequency and
intensities. However, a temperature rise of 1.5 – 2.5 °C or more above the normal
temperature of the human body exposed to ultrasound for longer than 1 hour may cause
thermal induced effects. For most diagnostic ultrasounds, the Mechanical Index should
not exceed 1.9. The Mechanical Index should not exceed 0.23 when performing an
ultrasound on the eyes. Using diagnostic ultrasound with Mechanical Index above,
these limits may cause cavitation in tissues. This chapter mostly covers the possible
hazards and harms associated with ultrasound. For the benefits and uses of ultrasound
in our lives, you may read chapter 13 of our previously published book: An
introduction to Medical Physics, edited by Muhammad Maqbool.
Nonionizing Radiation Safety and Regulations
Page: 340-366 (27)
Author: Norman E. Bolus and Muhammad Maqbool*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815136890123010015
PDF Price: $30
Abstract
Nonionizing radiation cannot ionize the human body tissues due to its low
energy; however, its thermal, mechanical, chemical, vibrational, and several other
effects can create complications. To avoid hazards and complications from nonionizing
radiation, it is mandatory to establish and follow proper rules and regulations while
dealing with such radiation. This chapter reports an overview of various rules and
regulations regarding the uses and limits of nonionizing radiation, provided by various
organizations.
Nonionizing Radiation Risk Management and Safety
Page: 367-377 (11)
Author: Ahmed Nadeem Abbasi, Abdul Qadir Jangda and Asad Yousuf*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815136890123010016
PDF Price: $30
Abstract
The applications of Nonionizing radiation (NIR) has increased in recent
years. Safety authorities and the public were concerned about the use of devices that
emit NIR. Questions about acute or chronic effects have subsequently become more
important. According to many studies and experiments carried out, EMF does not
affect the functioning of a living organism, provided that those certain established
acceptable standards are not exceeded. It comprises lower quantum energies and,
therefore, has different biological effects and interactions with matter. It displays its
unique personality, although it shares the same wave characteristics as ionizing
radiation. We can describe this in terms of its frequency, energy, and wavelength. It is
longer, less frequent, and lazier compared to ‘IR’, but it can still inflict a good deal of
damage. This Chapter will cover the effect of NIR interaction with matter, risk
management, and safety associated with its application.
Introduction
An Introduction to Non-Ionizing Radiation provides a comprehensive understanding of non-ionizing radiation (NIR), exploring its uses and potential risks. The information is presented in a simple and concise way to facilitate easy understanding of relevant concepts and applications. Chapters provide a summary and include relevant equations that explain NIR physics. Other features of the book include colorful illustrations and detailed reference lists. With a focus on safety and protection, the book also explains how to mitigate the adverse effects of non-ionizing radiation with the help of ANSI guidelines and regulations. An Introduction to Non-Ionizing Radiation comprises twelve chapters, each explaining various aspects of non-ionizing radiation, including: Fundamental concepts of non-ionizing radiation including types and sources Interaction with matter Electromagnetic fields The electromagnetic wave spectrum (UV, visible light, IR waves, microwaves and radio waves) Lasers Acoustic waves and ultrasound Regulations for non-ionizing radiation. Risk management of non-ionizing radiation The book is intended as a primer on non-ionizing radiation for a broad range of scholars and professionals in physics, engineering and clinical medicine.