Hadi Teguh Yudistira, Risha Diana Sari, Teuku Meurah Indra Riayatsyah, Suratun Nafisah, Adhitya Gandaryus Saputro
This study presents the design, fabrication, and validation of a double-cross microwave metamaterial sensor for glucose composition analysis as a cost-effective alternative to optical sensing methods. Periodic double-cross resonators were engineered to enhance electromagnetic interaction with glucose solutions. Numerical simulations were performed using CST Studio Suite to optimize the electromagnetic response, followed by fabrication of a paper-based prototype for experimental evaluation. Glucose solutions with concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 40% (w/v) were applied to the sensing region, and transmission characteristics were measured using a vector network analyzer. Both simulated and experimental results show a consistent shift of the primary transmission resonance toward lower frequencies with increasing glucose concentration. This shift is most pronounced for the first resonance peak due to stronger localized plasmon–polariton interactions. Further analysis reveals that the frequency shifts are associated with significant changes in the effective impedance, refractive index, permittivity, and permeability of the metamaterial. These results confirm the high sensitivity of the proposed sensor and demonstrate its potential for non-invasive, low-cost glucose monitoring in pharmaceutical and healthcare applications. © 2026 The Authors
Mechanical Engineering Study Program, Institut Teknologi Sumatera (ITERA), South Lampung, Lampung, Indonesia; Faculty of Industrial Technology, Institut Teknologi Sumatera (ITERA), South Lampung, Lampung, Indonesia; Center for Green and Sustainable Materials, Institut Teknologi Sumatera (ITERA), South Lampung, Lampung, Indonesia; Electrical Engineering Study Program, Institut Teknologi Sumatera (ITERA), South Lampung, Lampung, Indonesia; Quantum and Nano Technology Research Group, Faculty of Industrial Technology, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Bandung, Indonesia; Research Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Bandung, Indonesia