Scattering-parameter extraction and calibration techniques for RF free-space material characterization

This paper demonstrates a method for material characterization (permittivity, permeability, loss tangent) based on the scattering parameters. The performance of the extraction algorithm will be shown for modelled and measured data. The measurements were carried out at the European Space Agency using two free space test facilities for material characterization. In order to improve the accuracy of the measurements and to remove possible systematic errors in the setup, different calibration techniques are investigated.