Size dependent leaf overlay effects on thin film microstrip patch antenna

Abstract

Purpose

Use of thin film microstrip patch antenna for leaf moisture studies.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the studies on the effect of leaf used as in‐touch overlay on thin film microstrip patch antenna in the X band (8‐12 GHz) is reported. The patch was used as the transmitting antenna and a pyramidal horn antenna was the receiving antenna. Three leaves Furcarea Gigantea, Kalanchoe Pinnata and Cereus Prerogonus have been used as overlay. All these leaves have high chlorophyll content, but are different in their surface texture and rate of moisture loss.

Findings

Size of leaf, orientation with respect to direction of propagation and moisture content dependent changes in the patch antenna output are observed. When the size of the overlay is larger than the patch and the feedline is in contact with it, frequency changes are more, whereas when only patch is in contact with the leaf, amplitude changes are more. Thin film microstrip antenna can provide a means for sensing moisture content in leafy vegetation.

Originality/value

The study of moisture effects of leafy vegetation using the technique of in‐touch overlay on microstrip components can be used to generate data base about the plant conditions in various places.

Citation

Puri, V., Salunkhe, S.M. and Puranik, M.M. (2005), "Size dependent leaf overlay effects on thin film microstrip patch antenna", Microelectronics International, Vol. 22 No. 1, pp. 21-25. https://doi.org/10.1108/13565360510575512