Microwave properties of geological materials: Studies of penetration depth and moisture effects

Summarized are the results of two of a series of controlled experiments performed during the summer of 1970. The first series of experiments to determine penetration depth showed the value of having a modeled response and data reduced in real time for examination in the field. The results suggest a radiometric method for measuring the microwave properties of materials in bulk and are applicable to studies of sea ice and other naturally layered media. The sensitivity of the microwave emission to changes in moisture content has inspired a number of airborne and ground based investigations. Although the effect is dominent under certain conditions, the complicating factors of soil type, roughness, vegetation, etc. seem to govern the conclusions regarding its application at this time.