3D-printed microstrip patch antenna sensor utilizing complementary dual split-ring resonator for detection of liquid samples

Abstract This work showcases a low-cost portable Complementary Dual Split Ring Resonator (CDSRR)-based microstrip antenna loaded with defective ground structure particularly designed for liquid sample sensing applications. Utilizing state-of-the-art 3D printing technology and polylactic acid (PLA) as the antenna substrate, the design integrates a unique rectangular ring-shaped channel into the substrate to obtain a highly sensitive microfluidic channel-based antenna sensor. The proposed antenna sensor is designed to operate in the vicinity of ISM frequency bands. The overall dimensions of the proposed sensor are 0.5 λ 0 × 0.5 λ 0 and hence compact in size. The proposed antenna sensor resonates at different frequencies with change in the fluid samples inside the microfluidic channel and hence, it can detect different types of liquid materials. The proposed design provides highest sensitivity of 2.42 % and high Q-factor of 67.89 with a very small volume of 0.723 ml. Additionally, it has the ability to detect several kinds of edible oils, such as olive, mustard, and castor oils, which allows the amount of adulteration to be assessed for food safety purposes. The prototype of the sensor is also fabricated with 3D printing technology and also experimentally tested. This validation of the design highlights the sensor’s effectiveness and dependability, as well as its potential for real-world integration in a variety of applications requiring high sensitivity and accurate detection of liquid samples.