Transmission and Detection of 0.1-2.5 THz Through Porcine Tympanic Membrane

Abstract

Research has shown that exposure to high power THz radiation can cause thermal damage to the ear, leading to hearing loss and damage to the tympanic membrane. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of low intensity THz radiation on the ear and to determine safe exposure levels. This study investigates the transmission of 0.1 to 2.5 THz electromagnetic waves through porcine tympanic membrane samples. Similar to human tympanic membrane, porcine ear drum is a thin layer of tissue that separates the external ear from the middle ear and plays a crucial role in the process of hearing. Using THz time-domain spectroscopy, transmission of THz waves through ex vivo porcine tympanic membrane samples was measured. Results indicate that transmission of THz waves through the tympanic membrane is frequency dependent, with higher transmission observed at lower frequencies (0.1 to 0.5 THz) and lower transmission observed at higher frequencies (2 to 2.5 THz). This study provides new insights into the transmission of THz waves through the tympanic membrane and has potential to examine potential bioeffects as a result of THz interaction.