Speaker
Description
This study (as a part of the GOLIAT project) investigates the potential neurophysiological effects of acute exposure to 3.5 GHz 5G mobile phone (MP) radiofrequency (RF) signals on resting-state EEG activity in healthy young adults.
The experiment employed a double-blind design with a real and a sham exposure session. EEG recordings were taken during pre-exposure, mid-exposure, and post-exposure periods, with participants alternating between eyes-open and eyes-closed states. Skin temperature was monitored using an infrared camera. The 5G signal was transmitted via a patch antenna positioned near the participant's right ear, mimicking near-field MP use scenario. EEG data analysis focused on alpha power (8-12 Hz) averaged across the scalp. Skin temperature was measured on the face to assess potential temperature changes.
Results indicated that while EEG alpha power was significantly higher in the eyes-closed state compared to the eyes-open state, and alpha power changed over time differently depending on eye state, there were no significant exposure effects (real vs. sham) on alpha activity. Similarly, while facial temperature changed over time during the sessions, the real 5G RF exposure did not significantly affect skin temperature on the face.
In conclusion, acute exposure to 3.5 GHz 5G RF signals does not have a measurable impact on alpha activity in the resting-state EEG or facial thermal changes, suggesting no adverse effects on brain oscillatory activity associated with relaxed wakefulness at the tested exposure level (1 W/kg peak SAR). These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the safety of 5G technology.
