Click on “Download PDF” for the PDF version or on the title for the HTML version.

If you are not an ASABE member or if your employer has not arranged for access to the full-text, Click here for options.

Dielectric properties of materials are defined, and the major factors that influence these properties of agricultural and food materials, namely, frequency of the applied radio-frequency and microwave electric fields, water content, temperature, and density of the materials are discussed on the basis of fundamental concepts. The dependence of measured dielectric properties on these factors is shown for examples of grain, fruit, and a macaroni and cheese preparation. General observations are provided on the nature of the variation of the dielectric properties with the major variables.