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 (=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 mm, the antenna operates across a wide frequency range of 2.98-10.84GHz (simulated) and 3-10.15GHz (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.