Complex conductivity measurements between 26 and 110 GHz using complex impedance bridges

Abstract

A method is described of measuring complex conductivity based upon the measurement of the impedance of a sample placed in a waveguide using a complex impedance bridge. From the observed changes in the bridge parameters, viz., attenuation and phase shift, the impedance and, hence, the complex conductivity are inferred. The principles and details of operation of three bridges covering the frequency range 26 to 110 GHz are discussed. The measurement technique was verified for lossless samples and for lossy resistive wires. An example of temperature and frequency dependent complex conductivity measurements on a linear chain material is presented.