Performance analysis of MUSIC-type imaging without diagonal elements of multi-static response matrix

Generally, to apply the MUltiple SIgnal Classification (MUSIC) algorithm for the rapid imaging of small inhomogeneities, the complete elements of the multi-static response (MSR) matrix must be collected. However, in real-world applications such as microwave imaging or bistatic measurement configuration, diagonal elements of the MSR matrix are unknown. Nevertheless, it is possible to obtain imaging results using a traditional approach but theoretical reason of the applicability has not been investigated yet. In this paper, we establish mathematical structures of the imaging function of MUSIC from an MSR matrix without diagonal elements in both transverse magnetic (TM) and transverse electric (TE) polarizations. The established structures demonstrate why the shape of the location of small inhomogeneities can be retrieved via MUSIC without the diagonal elements of the MSR matrix. In addition, they reveal the intrinsic properties of imaging and the fundamental limitations. Results of numerical simulations are also provided to support the identified structures.