Permittivity-matched compact ceramic ultra-wideband horn antennas for biomedical diagnostics

Ultra-wideband (UWB) biomedical radar systems are an important means for the diagnostic inspection and monitoring of physiological signatures. Geometrically small antennas and high-resolution imaging techniques are required for such applications. We have analysed the time-domain reflection and transmission characteristics of compact ceramic double-ridged horn antennas, developed for contact-mode measurements with a permittivity matched to human tissues. Preliminary volunteer measurements employing these antennas are also presented.