Toshimasa Kawanishi

Measurements of ultraviolet reflection on coastal sand

The effects of ultraviolet radiation are greater in the coastal zone than in inland areas, due to reflection of sunlight from sand and the sea surface. These effects may be linked to erythema, melanization, etc. Detailed quantitative research on such basic aspects as the amount of UV reflected off a sand beach is still lacking. This report hopes to contribute to a better understanding of the intensity and distribution of UV radiation in a typical shoreline environment. The following aspects are researched and analyzed: (1) Basic directional pattern on UV intensity. (2) Differences in intensity of reflected UV radiation at various activity areas, including sand, waterline and in the water that comprise a beach environment. (3) Characteristics of UV radiation reflected off sea surface. (4) Amount of radiation found at various positions along beach.<<ETX>>

Measurement of ultraviolet radiation distribution on coastal area

The aim of this study is to clarify the distribution of ultraviolet radiation in coastal and inland areas. An adhesive-backed ultraviolet indicator, which is able to easily measure the amount of integral ultraviolet radiation by color change, was utilized. The results show the characteristics of the indicator and the distribution of ultraviolet radiation in coastal and inland areas.

Measurements of sea surface Sun-glitter

Reflection of sunlight off the surface of the sea, called Sun-glitter, has a direct effect on humans, and must be taken into account when designing a safe and pleasant visual environment. This research analyzes the physiological effects of Sun-glitter through delay of dark adaptation time; and psychological effects through a SD (Semantic Differential) Questionnaire Method. The extent of these effects was measured, and the relative importance of various physical characteristics of the Sun-glitter was investigated.<<ETX>>