Electromagnetic moisture measurement

Abstract

Electromagnetic moisture measurement technologies have proven to be valuable tools in diverse applications. This monograph covers basic aspects of nondestructive electromagnetic methods of water content de-termination and relates to the associated highly multidisciplinary fi eld of research and development. It also presents a comprehensive selection of relevant fi eld-tested methods and instruments. The fundamentals of electromagnetic fi eld interactions with dipolar materials are briefl y discussed, with special attention towards the dielectric properties of water and aqueous solutions. A tutorial and overview of electromagnetic measurement methods is presented, including dielectric spectroscopy in broad frequency and time domains, as well as dielectric imaging techniques. This review is complemented by a demonstration of successful real-world implementations for the moisture determination of soils, snow, buildings and building materials, food and agricultural goods, as well as various in-dustrial products. The text is completed by a guide concerning the use of reference liquids for the calibration of sensors and instrumentation and by a bibliography of more than 850 references. The monograph is useful as a reference book for researchers and engineers and as a textbook for upper-level students interested in the water content determination of materials.