Tensiometer and method of determining soil moisture potential in below-grade earthen soil
A tensiometer to in-situ determine below-grade soil moisture, potential of earthen soil includes, (a) an apparatus adapted for insertion into earthen soil below grade, the apparatus having a below-grade portion, and, comprising; (b) a porous material provided in the below-grade portion, the porous material at least in part defining a below-grade first fluid chamber; (c) a first fluid conduit extending outwardly of the first fluid chamber; (d) a first controllable isolation valve provided within the first fluid conduit, the first controllable isolation valve defining a second fluid chamber in fluid communication with the first fluid chamber through the first fluid conduit and the isolation valve, the first controllable isolation valve being received within the below-grade portion; and (e) a pressure transducer in fluid communication with the first fluid chamber, the pressure transducer being received within the below-grade portion. An alternate embodiment includes an apparatus adapted for insertion into earthen soil below grade, the apparatus having a below-grade portion, and including: (1) a porous material provided in the below-grade portion, the porous material at least in part defining a below-grade first fluid chamber; and (2) a pressure sensing apparatus in fluid communication with the first fluid chamber, the pressure sensing apparatus being entirely received within the below-grade portion. A method is also disclosed using the above and other apparatus. 6 figs.
- Research Organization:
- Lockheed Martin Idaho Tech Co
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC07-94ID13223
- Assignee:
- Lockheed Martin Idaho Technologies Co., Idaho Falls, ID (United States)
- Patent Number(s):
- US 5,758,538/A/
- Application Number:
- PAN: 8-391,942
- OSTI ID:
- 672557
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Tensiometer and method of determining soil moisture potential in below-grade earthen soil
Tensiometer and method of determining soil moisture potential in below-grade earthen soil