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Estimation of soil moisture status using near infrared reflectance
Author(s) -
Whalley W. R.,
LeedsHarrison P. B.,
Bowman G. E.
Publication year - 1991
Publication title -
hydrological processes
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.222
H-Index - 161
eISSN - 1099-1085
pISSN - 0885-6087
DOI - 10.1002/hyp.3360050312
Subject(s) - water content , soil water , reflectivity , environmental science , moisture , remote sensing , calibration , soil science , infrared , absorption (acoustics) , absorption of water , materials science , geology , optics , geotechnical engineering , composite material , mathematics , statistics , physics
The use of a prototype near infrared reflectance meter for estimating the water content of soil is described. The instrument, developed from one used for estimating the water content of forage is based on the measurement of reflectance of infrared light emitted at wavelengths of 1450 nm, a strong water absorption band, and 1300 nm a weak water absorption band. Calibration curves of reflectance and reflectance ratio versus moisture content for pure sands and sand/clay mixes are presented. Problems associated with the measurement of moisture content using this technique on swelling soils are highlighted. The use of a modified form of this instrument for estimating soil moisture status in the field is discussed.