Simultaneous measurement of dielectric properties and levels of liquids using a TDR method

Several monitoring methods, in the recent years, involved microwave/radio frequency (RF) reflectometry techniques, particularly in remote sensing, environmental and industrial application fields. The main advantages using reflectometry are due to its relevant performance characteristics, in terms of high flexibility, high sensitivity and large application conditions. Furthermore, the time domain reflectometry (TDR) presents some attractive advantages, related to the possible determination of the spatial location and nature of various objects, in real-time and with a non-destructive approach. This makes the TDR technique an appealing candidate for a variety of environmental and industrial applications. Although TDR instruments are commonly used today, particularly for the above mentioned purposes, the state of the art is rather lacking in liquid monitoring applications. In this paper we demonstrate that a suitable combination of TDR detecting functionalities, in terms of spatial localization, dielectric properties estimation and coaxial probe performance characteristics, leads to an enhanced quantitative and qualitative monitoring method. Really, in one shot, the analysis of TDR data allows the measurement of liquid levels, the determination of multiple interfaces in layered media, as well as the evaluation of dielectric properties, such as dielectric permittivity or electrical conductivity. Moreover, some applications to real cases are proposed, referred to petrol–chemical mixtures or water-based liquids, thus validating the approach on a wide range of materials.