Resonance Cavity-Based Detection of Micro-Holes in Gas Pipes Using a Metasurface-Integrated Ultrawideband Antenna

Abstract

Domestic gas pipelines are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient distribution of natural gas. However, undetected micro-holes, often caused by corrosion, mechanical stress, or wear, pose significant safety hazards, including gas leaks and potential explosions. Traditional detection methods such as ultrasonic sensing have limitations in sensitivity, range, and real-time monitoring capabilities. This paper proposes a novel resonance-based detection method for identifying micro-holes in gas pipelines using a metasurface (MS)-integrated ultrawideband (UWB) antenna. The method exploits secondary resonance phenomena, wherein the electromagnetic waves interact with the micro-holes, inducing detectable changes in the scattering parameters, particularly the $S_{21}$ parameter. By integrating a passive MS with the UWB antenna, we enhance the sensitivity and accuracy of detection. The proposed MS-integrated antenna has an overall planner size of $60 \times 60 \mathrm{~mm}$, covering the traditional UWB frequency range of $3.1 \mathrm{Ghz}-10.6 \mathrm{GHz}$. Preliminary simulation results demonstrate a $\mathbf{1. 6 8 ~ d B}$ increase in transferred power from the transmitting antenna to the receiving antenna. Hence, the proposed design can reliably detect the presence of micro-holes in domestic pipelines, offering a non-invasive solution for gas leak detection in residential environments. This method promises to enhance pipeline safety, reduce inspection costs, and prevent catastrophic failures in urban settings.