A Compact UWB Semi-circular Slotted Patch Antenna for Breast Cancer Sensing: Design and Fabrication

This study presents a compact and innovative Ultra-Wideband (UWB) antenna specifically designed for breast cancer detection, leveraging advanced electromagnetic simulation and fabrication methodologies. The proposed antenna incorporates a novel configuration with integrated rectangular and circular slots on a cost-effective FR-4 substrate (εr=4.4), achieving enhanced bandwidth and impedance matching. The design process included detailed simulations conducted using CST Microwave Studio, followed by prototype fabrication and rigorous validation through experimental testing with a Keysight Vector Network Analyzer and referential horn antennas. The experimental results demonstrate excellent agreement with the simulations, confirming the reliability and effectiveness of the antenna. With compact dimensions of 26 × 27 mm², the antenna operates across a wide frequency range of 2.98–10.84 GHz (simulated) and 3–10.15 GHz (measured), delivering a stable gain of 5.9 dB (simulated) and 5.89 dB (measured). The fractional bandwidth (FBW) is remarkably high, reaching 113.76% (simulated) and 108.75% (measured), underscoring its superior wideband capabilities. Additionally, the antenna's ability to penetrate deep into tissue and detect small tumors highlights its suitability for early-stage breast cancer diagnostics.