UK Surrey Team: 6G ISAC Networks Have an Optimal Base-Station Density That Balances Sensing and EMF Exposure

A theoretical study from the University of Surrey introduces a stochastic-geometry framework for downlink integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) in 6G, jointly modelling sensing SINR and electromagnetic-field exposure. The authors identify an optimal base-station density (~3×10⁻⁵ BS/m², or roughly 30 base stations per km²) that maximises joint performance and caution against uncontrolled densification. They also warn that large antenna arrays are highly sensitive to beam misalignment, which can inflate EMF exposure without delivering sensing gains.

"The densification of 6G networks for integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) demands a comprehensive framework to jointly evaluate sensing performance and electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure."

— Chemingui et al.

"there exists an optimal base station (BS) density, approximately λb = 3–10−5 BS/m2, that maximizes joint performance, cautioning against uncontrolled densification"

— Chemingui et al.

"the advantages of large antenna arrays are highly sensitive to beam alignment, as misalignment losses can offset potential gains and increase EMF exposure."

— Chemingui et al.

📄 Underlying Research

Analysis of Joint EMF Exposure and Sensing in Large-scale ISAC Network

Chemingui et al. (2026) IEEE International Conference on Communications Journal Level 1ⓘ

🔗 DOI

🇬🇧 UK Surrey Team: 6G ISAC Networks Have an Optimal Base-Station Density That Balances Sensing and EMF Exposure

Source

📄 Underlying Research

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