Analysis of a carbon fibre reinforced polymer slotted waveguide array fed by a loop type end launcher

The investigations of an end-launcher transition in Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) WR90 waveguides is presented. The applicability of the feed for CFRP slotted waveguide antenna is addressed. Some of the aspects pertaining to the efficiency of CFRP slotted waveguide antenna and its use for radar applications are discussed. The results are presented in comparison with those obtained from the same concepts implemented in aluminium waveguides. A recently implemented anisotropic model for CFRP laminates, which describes the electrical anisotropy of the composite material, was used. The data obtained provide promising indicators for the potential use of slotted waveguide antennas made of CFRP for radar applications.