Detecting Defects in Materials Using Nondestructive Microwave Testing Techniques: A Comprehensive Review
Ahmad Ghattas, Ramzi Al-Sharawi, Amer Zakaria, Nasser Qaddoumi
Abstract
Microwave nondestructive testing (MNDT) has shown great potential in detecting defects in various materials. This is due to it being safe and noninvasive. Safety is essential for the operators as well as the specimens being tested. Being noninvasive is important in maintaining the health of critical structures and components across various industries. In this paper, a review of MNDT methods is given with a comparison against other NDT techniques. First, the latter techniques are described, namely testing using a dye penetrant, ultrasound, eddy currents, magnetic particles, or radiography. Next, an overview of various microwave NDT methods is provided through a review of the applications, advantages, and limitations of each technique. Further, a detailed review of emerging MNDT techniques like microwave microscopy, active microwave thermography, and chipless radio frequency identification is presented. Next, a brief description of current and emerging algorithms employed in MNDT is discussed, with emphasis on those using artificial intelligence. By providing a comprehensive review, this article aims to shed light on the current state of MNDT, thus serving as a reference for subsequent innovations in this rapidly evolving domain.