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Mapping soil surface macropores using infrared thermography: an exploratory laboratory study.

João L M P de Lima1, João R C B Abrantes1, Valdemir P Silva2

  • 1Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Coimbra (FCTUC), Rua Luís Reis Santos, Campus II, University of Coimbra, 3030-788 Coimbra, Portugal ; Institute of Marine Research, IMAR/MARE, Coimbra, Portugal.

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Infrared thermography can map soil macropores and estimate their size. This technique aids understanding soil hydraulic properties and water flow dynamics.

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Area of Science:

  • Soil Science
  • Hydrology
  • Geophysics

Background:

  • Macropores significantly influence soil hydraulic properties and water flow, impacting processes like preferential and nonequilibrium flow.
  • Quantifying macropore number and geometry is crucial for understanding their effects on soil behavior.
  • Current methods for macropore analysis can be complex and labor-intensive.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate infrared thermography as a non-invasive technique for mapping soil surface macroporosity.
  • To assess the potential of this method for estimating the number and size of macropores.
  • To explore the application of thermography in soil science for improved characterization.

Main Methods:

  • Application of infrared thermography to a laboratory soil flume.
  • Surface temperature variations were analyzed to identify macropore features.
  • Image processing techniques were employed to quantify macropore characteristics.

Main Results:

  • Infrared thermography successfully mapped macropores at the soil surface.
  • The technique showed potential for estimating macropore number and size.
  • Preliminary results indicate a correlation between thermal patterns and macropore presence.

Conclusions:

  • Infrared thermography is a promising tool for non-invasively characterizing soil macroporosity.
  • This method offers a novel approach to studying soil physical and hydraulic properties.
  • Further research is warranted to validate and refine the technique for broader applications.