Examination of Breast Phantom Layers Using UWB Antenna Sensing Technique

Abstract

Breast cancer is among the most prevalent cancers and is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women globally. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. Microwave sensing presents a non-invasive, cost-effective, and patient-friendly alternative, leveraging antenna sensors to detect variations in tissue dielectric properties. This work focuses on the design and development of a hexagonal ultra-wideband antenna and a breast phantom model to analyze different breast tissue types. The system comprising the antenna and phantom is modeled using the HFSS simulator and validated through experimental testing with a VNA. Variations in reflection characteristics are examined, as the microwave signals interact with breast tissues, revealing their lossy and dispersive nature through absorption, transmission, and reflection behavior. The antenna exhibited strong resonance across various phantom layers. System validation performed using the VNA indicates a simulated minimum return loss of –25.83 dB at 7.1 GHz and a measured value of –27.82 dB at 6.2 GHz. The presence of a tumor is identified through variations in reflection characteristics, and tissue properties such as the Specific Absorption Rate.