Few scientists believe that ultralow frequency acoustic weapons will work
(This Week, 20 March, p 17),
but Maxwell Technologies of San Diego is patenting
one nonetheless. Its device works across a wide range of frequencies and is
highly directional. It is designed to control hostile crowds or disable hostage
takers (WO 99/17071). The company says it can cause injury to people up to 100
metres away. Cylinders supply bursts of explosive gases that are detonated by
100-kilovolt sparks. Maxwell claims it causes pain at sound levels of 145
decibels, ruptures eardrums at 185 dB, leads to pulmonary injury at 200 dB and
death at 220 dB.
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Technology
Test moderators use AI-generated writing to judge literacy standards
News
Technology
We should decide how AI shapes the future, not tech firms
Comment
Technology
Quantum voting could make elections more secure
News
Technology
DeepMind AI gives an extra day of warning ahead of deadly cyclones
News
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles