Protocol and basic concepts for data collection with SOILXPLORER (Soil mapping sensor)

Objective

This guide aims to show the correct use of the SOILXPLORER sensor, as well as the limitations to be taken into account.

Figure 1. SOILXPLORER soil mapping sensor.

  1. It is advisable that the ground has no vegetation or surface moisture (puddles), as it may alter the sensor measurement, yielding anomalous values.

  2. The distance between transects (distance between sensor passes) should not exceed 15-20 m, with the resolution level of the final map varying depending on the proximity of the transects (closer transects means higher resolution or detail of the obtained data).

Figure 2. Maximum recommended distance between sensor passes for data collection.

  1. Normal resistivity values (apparent electrical conductivity) generally range between 0 and 100 mS/m. Higher values may occur due to the presence of salts or water, but if these extreme values persist, it could be due to a sensor problem and it should be checked.

Figure 3. Reference table for interpreting the values obtained through the sensor.

  1. In general, high values would be associated with clay soils, low values with sandy soils, and intermediate values would correspond to loamy soils. Above values of 80-100 mS/m, we could find soils with excessive salinity that is harmful to most crops.

REMEMBER THAT THE RESULTS OBTAINED WITH THE SENSOR ARE INDICATIVE AND SHOW TRENDS. IT IS ADVISABLE TO COMPLEMENT THE USE OF THE SENSOR WITH TARGETED SOIL SAMPLING, WHICH SHOULD BE ANALYZED IN A CERTIFIED LABORATORY.