Free-space method of measuring complex permittivity of fast-ion conductors at microwave frequencies using pelleted samples

A new free-space method of measuring the complex permittivity at microwave frequencies of solid-electrolytes (such as AgI) using small (pellet) samples is described. Unlike the transmission-line and/or cavity methods which need elaborate sample heating arrangements (to achieve /spl beta/-to-/spl alpha/ phase transition) and also have restricted applications to low-loss materials, the present technique offers simpler and direct measurement of high conductivity at /spl alpha/-phase. Measured results are in good agreement with the available data.