Electromagnetic Modeling of an Adaptable Multimode Microwave Applicator for Polymer Processing

摘要

Microwaves have been investigated as an attractive alternative (and efficient) energy source to inefficient pressurized ovens for polymer processing. However, industrial use of microwave processing has been impeded by the lack of proper applicator design, modeling, and control/monitoring methods. In this paper, we will briefly talk about conventional multimode applicators, waveguide applicators, and recently developed single-mode applicators. Then we will present the electromagnetic modeling of a novel adaptable multi-feed multimode cylindrical cavity applicator where the spatial distribution of the electric field can be specified a priori to accomplish a desired processing task. At the end, the port-to-port coupling analysis will be performed both theoretically and numerically.