Dielectric Properties of Switchgrass and Corn Stover in the Radio Frequency Range

The dielectric properties of biological materials are relevant when developing moisture content sensors. However, little is known about the permittivities of switchgrass and corn stover in a wider frequency range. The goal of this research was to determine their dielectric constants and loss factors at different moisture contents across a frequency range of 5 Hz to 13 MHz and with the material static and in motion inside a sample container. The permittivity of these materials was calculated by measuring their admittance in a test fixture using an impedance analyzer at three different moisture levels (9.0% to 30.5%). Overall, the materials‘ dielectric properties increased with moisture but decreased with frequency. Prediction models were developed using the data in a frequency range of 10 kHz to 5 MHz. Model coefficients of determination were higher than 0.90 in general, except for the model measuring the loss factor of switchgrass in motion. Additionally, the dielectric constant was not different with the materials static or in motion, but the loss factor values were distinct. This work can be used for the development of electrical moisture content sensors for switchgrass and corn stover.