Acute Microwave Irradiation and Cataract Formation in Rabbits and Monkeys*

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.