Dielectric properties of defects on wood surfaces

Previous research on the dielectric properties of wood concentrated on clear wood or specific chemical components of wood. Practice, however, requires data not only on the dielectric properties of normal wood but also for typical defects associated with wood. Research was conducted to determine the magnitudes of the complex dielectric constant and loss tangent for typical wood features. In addition, their sensitivities to a range of excitation frequencies and wood moisture levels were examined. This paper presents examples that illustrate the type of data obtained for various wood features. This information will eventually help determine optimal operational parameters for dielectric-based scanning devices for wood products.