The dielectric behaviour of some types of human tissues at microwave frequencies

Abstract

The dielectric properties of four types of human tissues have been investigated by a coaxial line method at frequencies corresponding to free space wavelengths in the range 6 to 17 cm. The results have been examined in relation to the Debye dispersion equations and it has been found that the dielectric behaviour of some types of tissues can be described approximately by them if an additional term for ionic conductivity is included. The results have been further discussed with reference to ion and protein hydration and to the ionic conductivities of the intracellular and extracellular fluids.