Microwave imaging using 8-element microstrip patch antenna array

The microwave imaging system based on a novel eight element microstrip patch antenna array is proposed. The experimental setup consists of the designed antenna array along with the vector network analyzer and associated RF components in order to measure the 8-port S-matrix of designated samples at 3 GHz. The measured S-parameters are first transformed into the electric field data with the help of a simple calibration procedure involving some known reference samples. The actual image of the test region is then obtained by reconstructing the dielectric profile of the domain of interest in terms of the calibrated electric field data using the distorted Born iterative method. The performance of the proposed compact and low cost system is evaluated by imaging Plexiglas, ethanol solvent and other test specimens.