Microwave holography for NDT of dielectric structures

Abstract

Methods of ultrasonic diagnostics, which are widely applied for non-destructive testing of different constructions, are ineffective for foam insulation, the silicate fiber tiles or honeycomb prepregs due to their high porosity, which leads to high levels of acoustic wave attenuation. Microwave diagnostics using holographic subsurface radars RASCAN-5, which operate in the gigahertz band, could be a good alternative to ultrasonic testing. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the technology on an example of honeycomb dielectric composite materials.