Dual-version and dual-scale CSRR loaded sensor for mining-based material characterization.

In this work, dual-version and dual-scale sensor is proposed for mining-based material characterization. The sensor structure is configured using a circular-shaped patch loaded with a 3 × 3 CSRR array. The ground plane was fully loaded with a perfect electric conductor. A strong resonance for the (S21) parameter is achieved by four rectangular slots created surrounding the CSRR array. The first version of the sensor had an overall size of 100 mm × 60 mm and resonated at a frequency of 1.5 GHz. Furthermore, the sensor size was optimized, and the second version achieved an overall size of 30 mm × 20 mm. The second version provides a resonating peak at 4.88 GHz for the transmission coefficient. The effectiveness of the sensing area was analyzed using the electric field distribution and current density. Both sensors are fabricated and experimentally validated by comparison of simulated and measured results. In terms of sensing applications, mining-based materials (Copper, Chrome and Silica) were tested using both sensors. The dual-scale resonating capabilities of the sensors can effectively characterize the Material Under Test (MUT). In comparison, the proposed sensors have a compact size, dual scale of measurements, and capability of characterizing mining-based materials.