ODISHA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY AND

RESEARCH, BHUBANESWAR

SCHOOL OF ELECTRONIC SCIENCES

SEMINAR REPORT ON
A BIOMEDICAL SENSOR FOR DETECTION OF
CANCER CELLS BASED ON TERAHERTZ
METAMATERIAL ABSORBER

Submitted to - Submitted by –
Mrs. Ananya Dastidar Name - Dipankar Das
Mrs. Rashmi Rekha Sahoo Regd. No. - 2111100511
Mr. Naresh Chandra Naik Section & Group - A ‘2’
Semester - 7th
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 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who made this college
seminar a memorable and successful event. First and foremost, I extend my
heartfelt thanks to our esteemed HOS, Dr. Madhab Chandra Tripathy, for
providing us with this opportunity and for their constant support and
encouragement. I am deeply grateful to our faculty members, especially Mrs.
Ananya Dastidar, Mrs. Rashmi Rekha Sahoo and Mr. Naresh Chandra Naik
for their invaluable guidance and support throughout the preparation for this
seminar. Their insights and feedback have been crucial to my development as a
speaker. A special thank you to my fellow students for their enthusiasm and active
participation. Your engagement and thoughtful questions have made this seminar
a truly interactive and enriching experience. I also want to acknowledge the
efforts of the organizing committee, whose dedication and hard work behind the
scenes ensured the smooth execution of this event. Your teamwork and
commitment are greatly appreciated. Lastly, I would like to thank everyone who
attended and supported this seminar, including both teachers and students. Your
presence and encouragement have been a significant source of motivation for me.
Thank you all once again for making this seminar a successful and memorable
experience.

Dipankar Das
2111100511

[2]
 ABSTRACT

This report presents an innovative biomedical sensor designed for cancer

detection, utilizing a Terahertz Metamaterial Absorber (TMA) with Circular Ring
Resonators (CRRs) combined with Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) and Gold layers.
Operating at a resonant frequency of 3.71 THz, the sensor is optimized for
detecting cancer cells, exploiting their unique electromagnetic properties. The
design ensures high absorption at this frequency, enhancing sensitivity to
environmental changes. The sensor's effectiveness is demonstrated by key
metrics, including a high Figure of Merit (FoM) of 72,350 GHz/RIU/THz and a
minimal root mean square error of 0.114%. This non-invasive method offers a
significant improvement over traditional cancer detection techniques, with
potential for further optimization and expanded applications in biomedical
diagnostics..
Keywords: Terahertz Metamaterial Absorber (TMA), Biomedical Sensor
Cancer Cell Detection, Circular Ring Resonators (CRRs),Gallium Arsenide
(GaAs),

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CONTENTS

1. Introduction………………………………………………05

2. Theory and Background……………………………….....07

3. Design and Fabrication of the Sensor…………………....09

4. Working Principle………………………………………...11

5. Experimental Setup………………………………………13

6. Equivalent Model………………………………………...14

7. Results…………………………………………………….16

8. Contribution………………………………………………17

9. Challenges………………………………………………...19

10 . Limitations……………………………………………….20

11. Conclusion………………………………………………...21

12. FutureWork………………………………………………..22

13. References…………………………………………………23

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. The ability

to detect cancer at an early stage is paramount to improving patient
outcomes, as it increases the likelihood of successful treatment.
Traditional cancer detection methods, such as biopsy and imaging
techniques, though effective, come with limitations such as
invasiveness, high cost, and limited sensitivity in detecting early-stage
tumors. These challenges necessitate the development of novel
detection techniques that are both non-invasive and highly sensitive.

1.2 Traditional Methods of Cancer Detection

Conventional cancer detection methods include imaging techniques

like X-rays, MRI, and CT scans, as well as histological analysis through
biopsy. While these methods provide critical information, they are
often invasive, time-consuming, and may not always detect small or
early-stage tumors. Blood tests for tumor markers are another
approach, but these are often not specific enough for reliable early
detection. The limitations of these methods underscore the need for
improved diagnostic tools.

Fig 1.1. CT Scan method for cancer detection

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 1.3 Motivation

Terahertz (THz) technology has emerged as a promising candidate for

biomedical applications due to its non-ionizing nature and its ability to
provide high-resolution imaging. Terahertz waves, which fall between
the microwave and infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum,
have unique interactions with biological tissues, making them ideal for
detecting subtle changes in tissue composition. Metamaterials,
engineered structures with unique electromagnetic properties, can be
designed to enhance the interaction of THz waves with specific
biological targets, such as cancer cells. This report explores the use of
a terahertz metamaterial absorber (TMA) for the detection of cancer
cells, focusing on its design, fabrication, and performance evaluation.

1.4 Objective

The primary objective of this project was to present the design and
development of a biomedical sensor based on a terahertz metamaterial
absorber for detecting cancer cells. The sensor leverages the unique
properties of metamaterials to achieve high sensitivity and specificity
in cancer detection. The report will cover the theoretical background,
sensor design, experimental setup, results, and a discussion of the
findings, as well as the potential implications for future research and
clinical applications.

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2. THEORY AND BACKGROUND

2.1 Metamaterials
Metamaterials are artificially structured materials engineered to have properties
not found in naturally occurring materials. These properties arise from the
material's structure rather than its composition. Metamaterials can be designed to
interact with electromagnetic waves in unique ways, such as bending light
backward (negative refraction), focusing light beyond the diffraction limit, or
exhibiting a negative refractive index. These characteristics make them highly
suitable for applications in optics, antennas, and, as explored in this report,
biomedical sensors.

2.2 Negative Refractive Index

A negative refractive index is a property observed in certain metamaterials where
the direction of energy propagation (or wave vector) is opposite to the direction
of the phase velocity of light within the material. In simple terms, when light
enters a material with a negative refractive index, it bends in the opposite
direction compared to how it would in a conventional material. This unique
property can be exploited to enhance the sensitivity and resolution of sensors, as
it allows for better control over the propagation of terahertz waves within the
sensor structure.

Fig 2.1. Difference between positive refraction and negative refraction

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 2.3 Terahertz Technology
Terahertz (THz) waves occupy the frequency range between 0.1 and 10 THz,
bridging the gap between the microwave and infrared regions of the
electromagnetic spectrum. THz waves are non-ionizing, meaning they do not
have enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms or molecules,
making them safe for biological applications. Moreover, THz waves have been
shown to interact differently with healthy and diseased tissues, including cancer
cells, due to variations in water content and molecular composition. This makes
THz technology particularly useful for non-invasive medical diagnostics.

2.4 Resonance Frequency

Resonance frequency refers to the frequency at which a system naturally
oscillates with the greatest amplitude due to a particular stimulus. In the context
of this report, the circular ring resonators (CRRs) used in the sensor are designed
to resonate at a specific frequency when exposed to terahertz radiation. This
resonance is sensitive to changes in the surrounding environment, such as the
presence of cancer cells, which can shift the resonance frequency and be detected
through changes in the absorption spectrum.
1
𝑓 = 2𝜋√𝐿𝐶 (2.1)

2.5 Full Width at Half Maximum (FWHM)

The width of a peak at half its maximum height. Determine the peak's highest
value, find half of this value, and measure the distance between the points where
the peak reaches this half-maximum. Indicates the resolution of the peak; a
narrower FWHM means better resolution and more precise measurements.
2.6 Q-Factor
The quality factor (Q-factor) is a dimensionless parameter that describes how
underdamped an oscillator or resonator is. It represents the ratio of the resonant
frequency to the bandwidth over which the system resonates. A higher Q-factor
indicates a narrower bandwidth and higher sensitivity, making it a crucial
parameter in the design of highly selective and sensitive sensors. In the proposed
sensor, a high Q-factor ensures that small changes in the environment, such as the
presence of cancer cells, result in detectable shifts in the resonance frequency.
𝑓
Q = 𝐹𝑊𝐻𝑀 (2.2)

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3. DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF THE SENSOR

3.1 Sensor Structure

The sensor is designed using circular ring resonators (CRRs) coupled with a
dielectric layer of Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) and a metallic layer of Gold (Au).
The CRRs are arranged in a periodic pattern, forming a metamaterial that
resonates at a specific frequency in the terahertz range. The dielectric layer serves
as the substrate for the resonators, while the metallic layer enhances the sensor's
conductive properties, ensuring efficient interaction with terahertz waves. The
precise geometry of the CRRs is crucial for determining the resonance frequency
and overall sensitivity of the sensor.

(a) (b)
Fig .3.1. Proposed structure. (a) Top view. (b) Side view

3.2 Material Selection

Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) was chosen as the dielectric material due to its excellent
terahertz transparency and high refractive index, which contribute to the sensor's
sensitivity. Gold (Au), known for its superior electrical conductivity and chemical
stability, was selected for the metallic layer to enhance the sensor's resonance
properties. The combination of these materials ensures that the sensor operates
effectively at the target frequency of 3.71 THz, providing a strong absorption
peak that can be used to detect changes in the surrounding environment.

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 3.3 Metamaterial Design
The metamaterial design involves careful selection of the CRR dimensions,
spacing, and overall arrangement to achieve the desired resonance characteristics.
The design process includes computational modelling and simulation to optimize
the sensor's performance. Key design parameters include the radius of the rings,
the thickness of the dielectric and metallic layers, and the periodicity of the CRRs.
The resulting metamaterial exhibits a strong absorption peak at the target
frequency, which shifts in response to changes in the refractive index of the
surrounding medium, such as the presence of cancer cells.

Building on this foundation, the sensitivity of the metamaterial sensor is fine-

tuned by adjusting the coupling between adjacent CRRs and the dielectric layer.
By varying the distance between the CRRs or altering the thickness of the
Gallium Arsenide dielectric layer, the sensor's ability to detect minute changes in
the environment is enhanced. These adjustments allow the sensor to respond
precisely to variations in the refractive index, making it highly effective for
detecting even small quantities of cancer cells. The choice of materials, such as
Gold for the metallic layer, also plays a crucial role in ensuring minimal energy
loss and high conductivity, further boosting the sensor's accuracy and efficiency.

Additionally, the design process includes rigorous testing and validation through
both simulation and experimental setups. The simulated results are cross-verified
with experimental data to ensure that the sensor operates as expected in real-
world conditions. This iterative process of design, simulation, and testing ensures
that the metamaterial sensor not only achieves the desired resonance
characteristics but also maintains stability and reliability across different
conditions. The final design is optimized for high sensitivity and specificity, with
the ability to detect changes in the refractive index down to minute levels, making
it a powerful tool for early cancer detection and other biomedical applications.

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4. WORKING PRINCIPLE

4.1 Resonance Mechanism

The sensor operates based on the principle of resonance. When terahertz radiation
hits the sensor, the CRRs absorb the radiation at their resonant frequency.
Changes in the surrounding environment, such as the presence of cancer cells,
alter the resonance frequency, causing shifts in the absorption spectra.

4.2 Absorption vs Frequency Plot

The absorption vs. frequency plot shows how the sensor absorbs terahertz
radiation across different frequencies. The plot typically features a peak at the
resonant frequency where absorption is highest. Shifts in this peak indicate
changes in the refractive index of the material in contact with the sensor.

Fig 4.1. Absorption spectrum comparison between concatenated and

non-concatenated rings

4.3 Effect of CRR Concatenation

Concatenation of multiple CRRs enhances the sensor’s sensitivity by increasing
the effective surface area and interaction with the terahertz radiation. This leads
to improved detection capabilities and better resolution of the resonance peaks.

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 Fig 4.2. Surface current distribution (a) with and (b) without concatenation

4.4 Biomedical Sample Detection

To detect cancer cells, the sensor is exposed to a terahertz source while the
biomedical sample is placed between the source and the sensor. The reflected
spectrum is analysed to determine changes in the refractive index, which are
indicative of the presence of cancer cells.
Once the terahertz radiation passes through the biomedical sample, the interaction
between the radiation and the sample causes shifts in the resonant frequency of
the sensor. This shift occurs because cancer cells typically have different
electromagnetic properties, particularly a distinct refractive index compared to
normal cells. By precisely measuring the shift in the resonant frequency, the
sensor can detect even subtle changes in the refractive index. The analysis of the
reflected spectrum reveals these shifts, which are then correlated with the
presence of cancer cells. The greater the shift, the higher the likelihood that the
sample contains abnormal cells.
Moreover, the entire detection process is non-invasive and highly sensitive,
allowing for early-stage detection of cancer with minimal discomfort to the
patient. The system's ability to distinguish between normal and cancerous cells
based on refractive index differences provides a powerful diagnostic tool. The
data from the sensor is processed through advanced software, which uses
algorithms to predict the refractive index with high accuracy. This method of
detection offers significant advantages over traditional techniques, such as
biopsies, by providing real-time, rapid, and accurate results without the need for
invasive procedures. The sensor's high sensitivity and specificity make it an
invaluable tool in early cancer diagnosis, potentially leading to more effective
treatment and better patient outcomes

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5. EXPERIMENTAL SETUP

5.1 Sample Preparation

Biomedical samples, including cancer cells, are prepared and introduced to the
sensor. The samples are handled carefully to ensure accurate and consistent
results.

5.2 Experimental Procedure

The experimental procedure involves exposing the sensor to terahertz radiation
and measuring the reflected spectrum. The data collected is analyzed using
software to determine the refractive index and detect the presence of cancer cells.

5.3 Instrumentation
• Terahertz Source: Provides the necessary radiation for the sensor to
interact with the samples.
• Spectrometric System: Measures the reflected spectrum and analyzes the
absorption peaks.
• Data Analysis Software: Processes the spectral data to determine changes
in the refractive index and identify cancer cells.
• Application: Effectively detects cancer cells, validated various samples.

Fig 5.1. Biomedical sample detection using the proposed TMA.

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6. EQUIVALENT MODEL

Fig 6.1. Equivalent Circuit of the proposed TMA sensor

The equivalent circuit model simplifies the behavior of the metamaterial sensor
by representing it with basic electrical components like inductors, capacitors,
and resistors.

Inductors (L) simulate the magnetic response of the circular ring resonators.
Capacitors (C) represent the electric field coupling between the rings and the
dielectric layer.
Resistors (R) account for energy losses in the system.

The circuit resonates at a specific frequency, corresponding to the

metamaterial's absorption peak. Changes in the surrounding medium's refractive
index alter the circuit's capacitance, shifting the resonant frequency and
enabling the detection of cancer cells. This model helps optimize the sensor's
design for better performance.

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7. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

7.1 Sensing Performance

The sensor demonstrated high performance in detecting cancer cells, with a root
mean square error of 0.114% in refractive index measurement. This high accuracy
indicates the sensor's potential for reliable cancer detection.

7.2 Comparison with Traditional Methods

The TMA-based sensor offers several advantages over traditional methods,
including non-invasiveness, higher sensitivity, and the ability to detect cancer
cells at an early stage. This represents a significant improvement in diagnostic
capabilities.

7.3 Parametric Analysis

Parametric analysis involves studying how variations in different parameters
(such as the size of the CRRs or the thickness of the dielectric layer) affect the
sensor's performance. This helps optimize the sensor design for better accuracy
and sensitivity.

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Fig 7.1. Parametric analysis of the proposed structure. (a) Unit cell dimensions.
(b) Height of the substrate. (c) Polarization angle.

7.4 Figure of Merit

The figure of merit quantifies the sensor’s performance, taking into account
factors such as sensitivity, resolution, and accuracy. A high figure of merit
indicates that the sensor is effective and efficient in detecting cancer cells.

𝑆
FoM = (8.1)
FWHM

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8.CONTRIBUTION

Inductor (L1) with 0.5 nH: This component represents the inductive properties
of the circular ring resonators (CRRs) in the metamaterial. The inductance
captures the magnetic response of the CRRs to the incident terahertz wave.
Capacitor (C1) with 0.0037 fF: This represents the capacitive coupling
between the CRRs and the dielectric layer. It captures the electric field
interaction within the metamaterial, which is sensitive to changes in the
surrounding medium.
Resistor (R1) with 800 ohms: This component accounts for the resistive losses
within the system, which could be due to the material's inherent electrical
resistance and any other dissipative effects.
Voltage Source (V1) with AC 1 mV: The AC voltage source represents the
incident terahertz wave that is applied to the sensor. The frequency range is set
between 3.694 THz and 3.710 THz, which is close to the sensor's resonant
frequency.
Output Voltage (Vout): This is the measured voltage output, which
corresponds to the sensor's response to the incident terahertz wave.

.Fig 8.1 Equivalent model of the proposed TMA sensor

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 .Fig 8.2. Frequecy Response of the Equivalent circuit

Operation:
When the terahertz wave (represented by the AC source) is applied to the
sensor, the resonant circuit (formed by L1, C1, and R1) will resonate at a
specific frequency. The resonance leads to a peak in the absorption spectrum,
which is detected as a voltage at Vout.

Application in Biomedical Sensing:

When a biomedical sample, such as a tissue sample containing cancer cells, is
placed near the sensor, it causes a change in the refractive index of the
surrounding medium. This change affects the capacitance (C1) and shifts the
resonant frequency of the circuit. By analyzing the shift in the absorption peak,
the sensor can detect the presence of cancer cells with high sensitivity.

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9. CHALLENGES

9.1 Precision in Fabrication:

o The design of circular ring resonators (CRRs) requires extremely
precise fabrication. Even minor deviations from the intended
dimensions can significantly affect the resonant frequency and
overall performance of the sensor. Advanced fabrication techniques,
such as electron-beam lithography, are essential but can be
expensive and complex to implement.

9.2 Material Quality:

o The performance of the sensor depends heavily on the quality of the
materials used, specifically the Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) and Gold
(Au) layers. Any imperfections in these materials can introduce
inconsistencies in the sensor’s response, affecting its reliability and
accuracy. High-purity materials are required, which adds to the cost
and complexity.

9.3 Design Optimization:

o Achieving the optimal design for the metamaterial absorber involves
balancing multiple parameters, including the size, shape, and
arrangement of the CRRs. The design must be optimized to ensure
maximum absorption at the target frequency (3.71 THz) while
maintaining sensitivity to changes in the surrounding environment.

9.4 Integration with Detection Systems:

o Integrating the TMA sensor with the spectrometric system and data
analysis software poses challenges. The alignment of the terahertz
source, sensor, and detection system must be precise to avoid
measurement errors. Additionally, developing robust software for
real-time analysis and interpretation of the data is crucial for
accurate detection.

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10. LIMITATIONS
10.1 Sample Variability:
o The sensor’s effectiveness can be influenced by variations in the
samples being tested. Factors such as sample thickness, preparation,
and homogeneity can affect the measured refractive index and,
consequently, the accuracy of cancer cell detection.
10.2 Environmental Conditions:
o The sensor's performance may be affected by environmental
conditions, such as temperature and humidity. Variations in these
conditions can alter the terahertz signal and affect the absorption
spectra, potentially leading to inaccurate results.
10.3 Sensitivity to Interference:
o The terahertz signal used for detection is susceptible to interference
from other materials or substances present in the testing
environment. This interference can affect the accuracy of the
measurement and make it challenging to distinguish between cancer
cells and other biological materials.
10.4 Cost and Complexity:
o The technology involved in fabricating and operating the TMA-
based sensor is advanced and costly. The high-quality materials,
precise fabrication techniques, and sophisticated detection systems
contribute to the overall expense. Reducing the cost while
maintaining high performance is a significant challenge.
10.5 Scalability:
o Scaling up the technology for widespread clinical use presents
challenges. While the sensor may perform well in a controlled
laboratory setting, adapting it for real-world clinical environments
and ensuring consistent performance across different applications
requires further development.
10.6 Regulatory and Validation Requirements:
o Before the sensor can be used in clinical settings, it must undergo
rigorous validation and approval processes. This includes
demonstrating its accuracy, reliability, and safety in detecting cancer
cells, as well as complying with regulatory standards.

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11. CONCLUSION
The development of a biomedical sensor based on Terahertz Metamaterial
Absorbers (TMA) represents a significant advancement in the field of cancer
detection. This sensor leverages the unique properties of metamaterials,
particularly their ability to absorb electromagnetic radiation at specific
frequencies, to offer a highly sensitive and accurate means of identifying
cancerous cells. By utilizing circular ring resonators (CRRs) and a
combination of Gold and Gallium Arsenide (GaAs), the sensor achieves a peak
absorption of 99% at 3.71 THz, making it exceptionally effective at detecting
minute changes in the refractive index of biological samples.
The sensor's ability to operate at this specific frequency is particularly
advantageous because it aligns with the electromagnetic properties of cancer
cells, which exhibit distinctive refractive index characteristics. This specificity
allows for precise detection of various cancerous cells, enhancing the
diagnostic capabilities of the sensor. The reported sensitivity of 1447
GHz/RIU and a quality factor (Q-factor) of 92.75 further underscore the
sensor's performance, offering a robust solution for biomedical applications.
Despite its promising features, the sensor faces several challenges and
limitations. The precision required in fabrication and material quality is
critical, and any deviations can significantly impact sensor performance.
Additionally, the integration with detection systems and the impact of
environmental conditions on sensor accuracy must be carefully managed. The
high cost and complexity of the technology also present barriers to widespread
adoption, as does the need for rigorous validation and regulatory approval
before clinical use.
Overall, the TMA-based sensor represents a breakthrough in non-invasive
cancer detection technology. Its high sensitivity and specificity make it a
valuable tool for early diagnosis, which is crucial for improving treatment
outcomes. However, addressing the technical challenges and limitations is
essential for translating this technology from a laboratory setting to practical,
clinical applications. Ongoing research and development efforts are needed to
optimize the sensor's performance, reduce costs, and ensure its reliability and
accessibility for widespread use. By overcoming these hurdles, the TMA-
based sensor has the potential to revolutionize cancer diagnostics and
significantly impact patient care.

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12. FUTURE SCOPE
1. Enhanced Sensor Performance:
• Optimization: Refine design parameters (e.g., CRR dimensions,
dielectric thickness) for improved sensitivity.
• Multi-Band Designs: Develop sensors with multiple frequency bands
for broader detection capabilities.
• Tunable Metamaterials: Create designs with dynamically adjustable
resonance frequencies.
2. System Integration:
• Detection Systems: Improve integration with advanced spectrometers
and imaging devices.
• Data Analysis: Implement machine learning for better data
interpretation and differentiation of cancer types.
3. Clinical and Regulatory:
• Clinical Trials: Conduct extensive trials to validate effectiveness and
safety.
• Regulatory Compliance: Navigate regulatory requirements and secure
necessary approvals.
4. Expanded Applications:
• Broader Uses: Investigate applications beyond cancer detection for
other diseases and health monitoring.
• Commercialization: Develop strategies for market adoption and
commercialization.
5. Education and Training:
• Knowledge Sharing: Disseminate information through workshops and
publications.
• Training: Develop programs to train users and technicians on sensor
operation and maintenance.

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13. REFERENCES

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Biomedical Sensor for Detection of Cancer Cells Based on Terahertz
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