Dielectric Loss in Rocks

Abstract

In alternating electric fields, a dielectric material is frequently characterized by its dielectric loss, which depends on the fraction of electrical energy lost to heat, rather than by its electrical conductivity. The energy loss occurs as the result of two processes: conduction and slow polarization currents. Because dielectric materials always possess some degree of conductivity, dielectric loss is observed both in direct current flow and in alternating fields. The distinction is that for direct current flow the loss depends only on the conductivity, but in alternating fields, loss may take place with displacement currents also.