Fiber-optic polarimetric temperature sensor for characterizing a 900 MHz TEM cell used in bioeffects dosimetry studies

The primary goal in the development of an exposition chamber for bioeffects dosimetry studies is the exact knowledge of the electromagnetic field components inside the biological sample. Measuring is not possible using metallic field probes. This paper describes a transversal electromagnetic (TEM) cell suitable for bioeffects dosimetry studies at 900 MHz and the design of a fiber-optic polarimetric temperature sensor which is used to measure the specific absorption rate (SAR). Using this sensor a temperature change lower than 0.003/spl deg/C is detectable. By simulating the whole TEM cell and comparing; the results with the measured SAR at certain points inside the liquid biological sample one is able to determine the electromagnetic field components.