Rapid bulk density measurement using mobile device photogrammetry

TitleRapid bulk density measurement using mobile device photogrammetry
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2020
AuthorsWhiting M, Salley S.W, James D.K, Karl JW, Brungard C
JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal
Volume84
Issue3
Start Page811
Pagination811-817
Date PublishedMay 2020
ARIS Log Number370627
Abstract

Soil bulk density (Db), the ratio of soil solid mass to bulk soil volume, is an important but difficult soil property to measure. Existing methods are either expensive, time consuming, or destructive to the sample. The goal of this research was to investigate the utility of photogrammetry for measuring Db. Photogrammetry is the determination of shape and volume from multiple overlapping photos. Photos of soil peds placed on a 3D-printed turntable were obtained using two mobile devices. Photogrammetrymeasured volume and Db were compared with volume and Db measured using the clod and 3D laser-scanning methods. No significant differences between Db measured by any method were found. No statistical difference between cameras types was found. We conclude that photogrammetry is a useful method for measuring Db. Measuring Db using photogrammetry was much easier than the other methods and was less expensive and faster than 3D laser scanning.

URLfiles/bibliography/20-031.pdf
DOI10.1002/saj2.20063