Determination of dielectric property profile in cement-based materials using microwave reflection and transmission properties

Microwave characterization methods are effective means for evaluating dielectric properties of materials and correlating them to their important physical, chemical and mechanical properties. For characterization purposes most materials are considered homogeneous and the measurement of their dielectric properties is fairly straightforward. However, certain materials may be considered inhomogeneous in such a way that their dielectric properties vary in a preferred direction within the material. To evaluate the dielectric property profile of these materials an electromagnetic model is necessary that can be used along with their measured reflection and transmission properties. This paper presents the development of such a model which is subsequently used to determine the dielectric property profile in mortar samples exposed to cyclical ingress of salt solution.