Assessment of Ultraviolet and Infrared Radiations Transmission in Automobile Windshields and Side Windows

ABSTRACT Background Although exposure to solar radiation is beneficial for humans, too much of it can cause severe health conditions, including sunburn and skin cancer. The biological effects of solar radiation vary enormously with wavelength and exposure time. Ultraviolet and infrared radiations are the two main invisible components of solar radiation, causing skin damage. People are becoming more aware of the significance of sun protection, though little attention is directed to the exposure of the skin to UV and IR radiations through car windows. According to a survey of 1293 participants, mainly from Saudi Arabia, the fact that UV radiation can penetrate through car windows is known by the majority, i.e., 82%. However, the capability of IR radiation to penetrate vehicle windows is unknown to most people. Even though car windows reduce the transmission of ultraviolet and infrared rays, drivers are not isolated from them completely. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that measures solar exposure in cars in the middle east region, which is famous for its hot and arid (dry) climate with temperatures reaching over 52°C. Specifically, this study aimed to determine the driver exposure to UV and IR radiations in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, and emphasize the need to take the necessary measures to avoid exposure to these rays. Method An experiment using a PMA2100 datalogger radiometer was conducted inside and outside twenty vehicles. The radiometer measured the transmitted radiation through the front and the side windows. Then, the UV and IR measurements were analyzed and evaluated inside all vehicles. Results The average transmission percentage of ultraviolet through the car’s side window was 10.47%, while the front window only transmitted 4.06%. In comparison, the average transmission percentage of infrared through the side window was 30.02% and 39.30% through the front windows. Conclusion These results highlight the importance of protection against UV and IR radiations since the drivers are exposed to significant UV and IR radiations. Furthermore, the protection methods must be increased in areas with a hot climate, such as the middle east region.