GEL-WATER RELATIONSHIPS - DIELECTRIC DISPERSION

At low frequencies, the dielectric constant of gels of agar, carboxymethyl cellulose, gelatin, mid maize starch is much higher than that of water. It decreases continuously as the frequency increases, tending to level off at about 108 cps. The dielectric constant is lower the higher the concentration of polymer; it increases in the order: carboxymethyl cellulose, agar, starch, and gelatin. Results are most reasonably explained by assuming a more solid structure of water the lower the dielectric constant. Copyright © 1968 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.