An unobtrusive liquid sensor utilizing a micromilled RF spark gap transmitter and resonant cavity

H. Berry; C. Wilson

doi:10.1117/12.830246

17 September 2009 An unobtrusive liquid sensor utilizing a micromilled RF spark gap transmitter and resonant cavity

H. Berry, C. Wilson

Proceedings Volume 7485, Millimetre Wave and Terahertz Sensors and Technology II; 748506 (2009) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.830246
Event: SPIE Security + Defence, 2009, Berlin, Germany

Abstract

This paper reports on a new dielectric liquid sensor that utilizes an RF sparkgap transmitter coupled with an aluminum microwave resonant cavity. The transmitter is a micromilled polymer transmitter housing with patterned copper electrodes that generate micro-arcs. This transmitter which operates outside the measured liquid generates a directed ultrawideband signal which is received by the aluminum waveguide. Absorption resonances in the microwave cavity, measured with a spectrum analyzer are a function of the liquids' dielectric constant at lower frequencies, as well as from molecular vibrations/rotations at higher frequencies. In many chemical manufacturing processes, liquids being manufactured are removed, tested in a lab, and then disposed of, or else they will contaminate the full batch. In beer brewing, for instance, samples are removed, density tested for alcohol content, then disposed of. Using this sensor, the chemical process could be continuously monitored by a computerized system without risk of contamination.

Citation Download Citation

H. Berry and C. Wilson "An unobtrusive liquid sensor utilizing a micromilled RF spark gap transmitter and resonant cavity", Proc. SPIE 7485, Millimetre Wave and Terahertz Sensors and Technology II, 748506 (17 September 2009); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.830246

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