Average dielectric properties of discrete random media using multiple scattering theory

The average or bulk dielectric properties of discrete random media are investigated using rigorous multiple scattering theory. A model of the random medium is developed as the random distribution of identical, spherical scatterers imbedded in a homogeneous unbounded background medium. Two forms of the radial distribution function are considered, the virial series and the self-consistent form. The average loss tangent of the bulk medium is determined as a function of frequency and scatterer concentration and compared with the Maxwell-Garnet mixture formula. Results show that multiple scattering losses are significant at high concentrations and must be accounted for when the frequency is approximately equal to or greater than 0.05. It is shown that this theory and computational procedure can be used as a mixture formula for frequencies in the range 0-5.0 and concentrations in the range 0.01-0.40.