An Acoustic Temperature Sensor to Monitor Variable Frequency Microwave Curing of Polymer Dielectrics

While conventional thermal curing can take several hours, variable frequency microwave (VFM) curing can perform the same steps in minutes, without compromising intrinsic material properties. VFM processing is a viable alternative to conventional thermal techniques because of advantages like rapid heating selective heating of materials, and the capability to process metals. However, current limitations include uncertain process characterization methods and a lack of reliable temperature measuring techniques. Prior research has utilized statistical experimental design, neural networks, and genetic algorithms to model and optimize VFM process parameters. Current research focuses on developing a reliable temperature measuring system using acoustic techniques to monitor polymer dielectrics cured in a VFM The acoustic sensor exhibits the capability to measure temperatures from 20 to 200 degC with an accuracy of plusmn2 degrees.