The SAR Value: What Is It?

The SAR value, or “Specific Absorption Rate,” is a regulatory measurement of the intensity of electromagnetic radiation emitted by mobile phones. It quantifies the temperature increase in tissues due to energy absorption, expressed in watts per kilogram (W/kg). It is worth noting that the term “TAS” (Taux d’Absorption Spécifique) is sometimes used as an alternative designation.

How Is the SAR Value Measured?

The measurement of SAR is based on modeling the human body as a homogeneous fluid, without taking into account its actual biological properties. The procedure involves immersing a probe into a container filled with a liquid that has electrical properties similar to biological tissues and measuring the temperature increase over a period of six minutes.

Why Is the SAR Value Insufficient?

Although SAR is widely used as an indicator of exposure to electromagnetic waves, it has several limitations:

• It only considers the thermal effects of waves, ignoring other potential impacts on living organisms.
• It relies on simplified models that do not account for the real biological responses of the human body.
• It measures only a single frequency in the microwave range, without covering the entire spectrum of radio frequencies.

A Paradox of SAR: Lower Value = Higher Toxicity?

Counterintuitively, some studies suggest that a lower SAR value might be associated with increased biological toxicity. In fact:

• A high SAR value places cells under stress, activating their defense mechanisms.
• A low SAR value may create a false sense of security, while low-frequency waves, which are not measured, may still be harmful.

This phenomenon can be compared to electric cars: their silence reduces danger awareness, increasing the risk of accidents.

A More Holistic Approach Is Needed

The toxicity of low-frequency fields (ELF) is recognized by the WHO and classified as Category 2B (possibly carcinogenic). However, SAR does not quantify them, as it focuses solely on high-frequency radiation. Therefore, it is essential to go beyond SAR to assess the real biological effects of electromagnetic waves.

For more information, check out Professor Marc Henry’s analysis on the subject: Watch the video (from 1h15).

Conclusion

SAR is a useful technical indicator but is insufficient for evaluating the true effects of electromagnetic waves on the human body. A more holistic approach, considering the entire frequency spectrum and its biological impacts, is essential to better understand and mitigate the risks associated with wave exposure.