Lithosphere infiltrometer: A low cost, automated infiltrometer (permeameter) for measurement of soil health, infiltration, and hydraulic conductivity
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Accurate measurement of infiltration rate and hydraulic conductivity is important for assessing soil physical health, irrigation management and catchment modelling. Commercially available infiltrometers are often expensive, fragile, and require specialist knowledge to operate and perform complex post-measurement calculations. We developed the Lithosphere Infiltrometer (permeameter) to be usable for both experienced soil researchers, and users without prior technical or scientific expertise in soil science. The Lithosphere Infiltrometer is able measure both surface and subsoil infiltration rate and hydraulic conductivity. It is manufactured using 3D-printed parts and off-the-shelf electronic components. It has a robust, quad-leg design that allows for rapid leveling of the device and accurate setting of water depth via a novel 3D-printed bell chamber. The water level is measured using a U85 JRT laser with ±1 mm accuracy connected to an Adafruit Huzzah 32 microcontroller. Infiltration rate and hydraulic conductivity are calculated at 1 to 10 min time steps, and data is presented in real-time on an OLED display. Data is stored on the device and available for download to a mobile device by Wi-Fi.
Source: Smart Agricultural Technology
Authors: Marcus Hardie, Ananda Maiti, Rob Hardy
Institutions: University of Tasmania, Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture
Language: English
Topic: Soil and Unsaturated Flow
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,800
Funder: University of Tasmania
OpenAlex ID: W4403261096