Developing a High-Power Metal-Plate Lens Antenna for Microwave Fracturing of Rocks

IF 1 4区工程技术 Q4 ENGINEERING, ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONIC

Microwave and Optical Technology Letters Pub Date : 2025-03-12 DOI:10.1002/mop.70169

Yanlong Zheng, Zhongjun Ma, Jianchun Li

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

This study presents the design and experimental validation of a high-power metal-plate lens antenna for efficient microwave fracturing of rocks in the near-field. The antenna integrates a horn feed with a biconcave metal-plate lens to achieve extended working distances and enhanced power focusing. Through numerical simulations, the antenna demonstrated a maximum microwave power density of 22 W/cm² on diabase rock surfaces at 6 kW input power with a 36 cm irradiation distance. The reflection coefficient remained below −10 dB across irradiation distances of 20–50 cm, confirming robust energy transmission. Rock fracturing tests revealed that the antenna effectively induced thermal cracking at 36 cm, achieving a peak surface temperature of 270°C after 4 min of irradiation. The results highlight the antenna's ability to maintain focused microwave energy over practical working distances, offering significant potential for deployment in tunneling and mechanical excavation where conventional antennas face limitations. This work advances high-power microwave applications in geotechnical engineering by addressing critical challenges in power delivery and operational range.

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来源期刊

Microwave and Optical Technology Letters 工程技术-工程：电子与电气

CiteScore

3.40

自引率

20.00%

发文量

371

审稿时长

4.3 months

期刊介绍： Microwave and Optical Technology Letters provides quick publication (3 to 6 month turnaround) of the most recent findings and achievements in high frequency technology, from RF to optical spectrum. The journal publishes original short papers and letters on theoretical, applied, and system results in the following areas. - RF, Microwave, and Millimeter Waves - Antennas and Propagation - Submillimeter-Wave and Infrared Technology - Optical Engineering All papers are subject to peer review before publication