A low-cost and multifunctional long-life anthropomorphic head phantom for microwave brain imaging systems

To assess the performance of microwave brain imaging (MWBI) systems, an anthropomorphic multifunctional head phantom with long life, low cost, and reliable dielectric properties over the intended frequency range is a principal requisite. A solid head model has been developed using a mold casting method, incorporating graphite, aluminum oxide, carbon black powder, and brass powder with epoxy/hardener. Four healthy solid brain tissues consisting of skin, skull, gray matter, and white matter are fabricated to mimic realistic head tissue properties along with cerebrospinal fluid. The constructed head model incorporates four cavities of varying sizes and positions, designed to accommodate healthy or unhealthy cores, thereby simulating diverse stroke scenarios without necessitating separate healthy and unhealthy models. Utilizing a single-head model preserves dielectric properties during comparative analysis (healthy/unhealthy), except for core components. Tissue properties were measured twice, three months apart, showing good agreement between theoretical and measured results.