Acute Microwave Irradiation and Cataract Formation in Rabbits and Monkeys*

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Abstract
Rabbits and monkeys were irradiated in the near field of a cavity-backed 2450 MHz resonant slot radiator, to determine the cataractogenic threshold. Rabbits developed cataracts at incident “apparent” power densities of 180 mW/cm2 (E2/120 π, where E == rms/electric field strength). Monkeys sustained facial burns, but no lens damage, even at incident “apparent” power densities of 500 mW/cm2. These results were substantiated by computer thermal models.