Automated Method for Characterizing Temperature Dependent Dielectric Materials

Among the various methods to accelerate curing thermoset polymers, such as epoxy, involves the use of radio frequency (RF) fields. In this, the polymer precursor materials are placed in a microwave reactor, high power RF fields are introduced, and the electrical (or for that matter, magnetic) loss mechanisms convert the RF power to heat and therefore inducing curing. One of the most challenging aspects of such curing methods lies in the fact that the materials being cured undergo chemical change during the process. This results in a time-dependent change in the electrical properties of the materials. It is therefore important to have accurate data on the material’s electrical properties as a function of both temperature and extent of cure. This paper describes an apparatus designed to facilitate such measurements.