Static Dielectric Constant of Water and Steam

Abstract

This paper reviews and evaluates the experimental works of the static dielectric constant (permittivity) of water and steam over the century. The critically evaluated experimental data are represented by a function of temperature and density. This representation was carefully examined in the light of the criteria for smoothness and physical plausibility. As a result of this work, which was largely stimulated by the activities of the International Association for the Properties of Steam, a new International formulation for the static dielectric constant of water and steam was adopted. This formulation covers a temperature range from 0 to 550 °C and a pressure range up to 500 MPa.