Microwave Dual-Crack Sensor with a High Q-Factor Using the TE₂₀ Resonance of a Complementary Split-Ring Resonator on...

Area of Science:

• Microwave Engineering
• Non-Destructive Testing
• Electromagnetics

Background:

• Microwave sensors offer non-destructive metal crack detection (MCD) advantages like low cost and remote sensing.
• Developing multi-crack sensors with adequate size and quality factor (Q-factor) remains a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and demonstrate a novel multi-MCD sensor capable of detecting multiple cracks.
• To enhance the Q-factor and miniaturize the sensor for practical applications.

Main Methods:

• Integration of a higher-mode substrate-integrated waveguide (SIW) with two independent complementary split-ring resonators (CSRRs).
• Numerical simulations and experimental validation of the sensor's performance.
• Loading CSRRs onto the SIW to concentrate the electromagnetic field and improve the Q-factor.

Main Results:

• The proposed sensor efficiently detects two sub-millimeter metal cracks simultaneously.
• Achieved a high Q-factor of 281.
• Demonstrated effective detection for cracks of varying widths and depths.

Conclusions:

• The developed SIW-CSRR sensor effectively addresses the challenge of multi-crack detection.
• The sensor's design enables miniaturization and improved performance for MCD applications.