Electromagnetic Nondestructive Testing

— Microwave material characterization is an important nondestructive evaluation tool, as many physical and chemical properties can be related to a material's dielectric properties. These properties can be measured using a number of methods including the loaded waveguide technique. This method requires that a sample be placed in a waveguide sample holder and subsequently utilizes measured complex reflection (S 11) and transmission (S 21) properties to calculate the sample's dielectric properties. As such, it is important that the sample be prepared carefully, as the dielectric property calculation assumes a perfect (ideal) sample geometry. However, in practice, samples are oftentimes prepared by hand, resulting in a distorted sample geometry. This paper presents a simulation and measurement study on a number of potential sample preparation errors and the effect of these errors on calculated dielectric properties. Finally, a statistical analysis (including mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, and confidence interval) was applied to provide a method by which calculated dielectric properties (even when imperfect samples are used) can be checked to ensure that proper accuracy of the results has been achieved.

International Journal of Electromagnetic invites high quality manuscripts in the research areas of electromagnetic modeling, analysis and implementation. The journal proposes to stimulate the development of latest technology in industry and academia. Good quality review papers and short communications are also acceptable

In this study, an electromagnetic wave 8-12 GHz X band microwave was utilized to detect various types of damage in a woven fabric composite structure. Damages, such as cracks, delamination, bubbles, and voids, were synthesized artificially in accordance to ASTM D2734. Variable thicknesses of composite structure were also analyzed, and the influence of defect on the transmitted signal was investigated. Network analyzer (ENA5701C) in Xband was utilized for this investigation. Detection was based on the changes in the electromagnetic properties, such as permittivity and permeability, and the reflection and transmission to microwaves were based on standard samples. These were implemented for each case of defect selected for this study. Experimental tests revealed that damage in the transparent glass/epoxy composite can be recognized clearly. Particularly, sample thickness was detected when the microwave was applied. This testing method can be considered an inline operation and non-destructive testing for such composites, especially during fabrication.