Evaluation of realtime spray drift using RTDrift Gaussian advection-diffusion model

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Pesticide Application Technology

Background:

• Spray drift poses environmental risks and necessitates accurate prediction.
• Real-time monitoring of sprayer operational parameters is crucial for effective pesticide application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a real-time spray drift model for pesticide applicators.
• To assess the model's accuracy under various field conditions and identify sources of error.

Main Methods:

• A spray drift model integrating real-time sensor data (pressure, boom height, movement, geolocalization) was developed.
• Droplet size spectrum was characterized using PDI measurements; wind data was collected via an ultrasonic anemometer.
• A diffusion-advection Gaussian tilting plume model computed downwind drift deposits for different droplet classes and nozzles.

Main Results:

• The model accurately captured the influence of wind speed and direction on drift deposits.
• Observed overestimation of short-distance drift and underestimation of long-distance drift.
• Discrepancies were attributed to embarked wind speed measurements and diffusion parameters.

Conclusions:

• The developed model provides valuable real-time spray drift information.
• Calibration of embarked wind speed and diffusion parameters is recommended to enhance model accuracy.
• Further research should focus on refining these parameters for improved drift prediction.