ASTM D3380-10

Permittivity and dissipation factor are fundamental design parameters for design of microwave circuitry. Permittivity plays a principal role in determining the wavelength and the impedance of transmission lines. Dissipation factor (along with copper losses) influence attenuation and power losses.

This test method is suitable for polymeric materials having permittivity in the order of two to eleven. Such materials are popular in applications of stripline and microstrip configurations used in the 1 to 18 GHz range.

This test method is suitable for design, development, acceptance specifications, and manufacturing quality control.

Note 2—See Appendix X1 for additional information regarding significance of this test method and the application of the results.

1.1 This test method permits the rapid measurement of apparent relative permittivity and loss tangent (dissipation factor) of metal-clad polymer-based circuit substrates in the X-band (8 to 12.4 GHz).

1.2 This test method is suitable for testing PTFE (polytetrafluorethylene) impregnated glass cloth or random-oriented fiber mats, glass fiber-reinforced polystyrene, polyphenyleneoxide, irradiated polyethylene, and similar materials having a nominal specimen thickness of ¹/₁₆ in. (1.6 mm). The materials listed in the preceding sentence have been used in commercial applications at nominal frequency of 9.6 GHz.

Note 1—See Appendix X1 for additional information about range of permittivity, thickness other than 1.6 mm, and tests at frequencies other than 9.6 GHz.

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.