Biological Effects of Radio- and Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Radiation
Ulrich H. Behling · 1969
1969 research established early scientific foundation for understanding biological effects of electromagnetic radiation across frequency ranges.
Plain English Summary
This 1969 technical report by Ulrich Behling examined the biological effects of both radio frequency and low frequency electromagnetic radiation on living systems. The study represents early research into how nonionizing electromagnetic fields might affect human health and biological processes. This work helped establish the foundation for understanding EMF bioeffects that continues to inform research today.
Why This Matters
This 1969 report represents a pivotal moment in EMF research history, conducted during the early years of widespread radio and television broadcasting when scientists first began seriously investigating potential biological effects. The timing is significant because it predates the massive expansion of wireless technology we live with today. What makes this work particularly relevant is that it examined both radio frequencies (like those used in early broadcasting and now in cell phones) and low frequencies (like those from power lines and household wiring). The science demonstrates that concerns about electromagnetic radiation's biological effects aren't new or driven by modern technology fears. Researchers were documenting potential bioeffects decades before cell phones, WiFi, and smart devices became ubiquitous. This early technical documentation helps establish that EMF bioeffects research has deep scientific roots, countering industry claims that health concerns are merely modern hysteria.
Figures from the Original Paper
Diagram extracted from the original research document.
Exposure Information
Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study.
Study Details
To summarize the existing literature concerning the effects of various electromagnetic irradiations on biological specimens, particularly focusing on radio and low-frequency electromagnetic radiation effects.
Review of existing literature on biological effects of electromagnetic radiation, including studies ...
Evidence indicates that electromagnetic radiation in the radio-frequency and very low-frequency rang...
There is sufficient evidence in the literature indicating that electromagnetic radiation in the radio-frequency and very low-frequency range is capable of producing thermal effects which are, therefore, absorbed dosage dependent as well as non-thermal effects which are field dependent and not necessarily related to heating. These effects are primarily concerned with pearl-chain formation, changes in the central nervous system and peripheral nervous systems. The current radiation protection guideline in this country for normal environmental conditions and for incident electromagnetic energy of frequencies from 10 MHz to 100,000 MHz has been set at 10 W/cm2 as averaged over any possible 0.1 hour period. More work is needed in the radio and very low frequency range to determine if the value of 10 mW/cm2 is extendable to frequencies below 10 MHz.
Show BibTeX
@article{biological_effects_of_radio_and_low_frequency_electromagnetic_radiation_g6881,
author = {Ulrich H. Behling},
title = {Biological Effects of Radio- and Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Radiation},
year = {1969},
}