Examining the Impacts of Different Characteristics of Water on Coplanar Patch Antenna

Antennas are subjected to diverse environmental conditions during the transmission or reception of signals in the form of electromagnetic waves. While designed to function outdoors or in environments conducive to minimal signal attenuation, they may not always operate under such ideal circumstances. Factors such as rain induced water puddles impinging on the antenna's radiation pattern can lead to wave attenuation. Given that the conductivity enables the electric transfer of water is approximately 80 times more effective than that of air, it significantly reduces the velocity of electromagnetic waves. Consequently, such issues give rise to undesirable conditions in S_11, a critical parameter for antennas. This analysis encompasses the theoretical, simulation, and fabrication phases of a coplanar patch antenna. S_11 input reflection values were measured utilizing a Nano-VNA across various environments, including saltwater collected from the coastal area of a district (Black Sea) in Düzce, Türkiye; freshwater from the market designated for drinking purposes; mineral water; initially from a fountain source cited in literature as a remedy for kidney ailments by local inhabitants; and in an open-air setting. Signal attenuation values were compared at approximately 2.1 GHz frequency and its vicinity. Upon completion of the modelling, testing, and evaluation, it was observed water primarily contributed to signal attenuation, rendering the antenna non-functional.