electromagnetic wave heating

Electromagnetic wave heating, also known as radio-frequency heating, uses high-frequency radio waves (above 70,000 Hz) to heat materials. There are two primary methods: induction heating and dielectric heating.1

Induction heating is effective for conductive materials. The material is placed within an electromagnetic field generated by an inductor coil. This field induces electrical currents within the material, which then generate heat. The amount of heat depends on the induced currents, the material's resistance, and exposure time. This method is used in metalworking for hardening, soldering, and tempering, and in experimental fusion reactors to heat plasma.1

Dielectric heating is used for poor electrical conductors (insulators) like plastics and wood. When placed in a high-frequency electromagnetic field between two electrodes, electrical losses within the material generate heat. This method allows for even heating throughout the material and is used in industrial drying, gluing, and in microwave ovens for cooking.12

Electromagnetic radiation itself is the flow of energy at the speed of light through electric and magnetic fields, encompassing radio waves, visible light, and gamma rays. This radiation is produced when charged particles accelerate or decelerate.34