Microwave-Heating Technique for Batch Processing

A microwave-heating technique provides for batch processing of multiple, identically sized and shaped samples of the same material. The technique involves (1) excitation of a symmetrical electromagnetic mode or modes in a symmetrical microwave cavity and (2) positioning the samples symmetrically in the cavity so that all samples are exposed to the same electromagnetic-field conditions and thus the same heating conditions. Typically, the electromagnetic mode(s) and the pattern for mounting the samples are chosen to maximize the heating effect and make it as nearly spatially uniform as possible.