Measuring method for determining the ammonium content in the soil

TO-157 • PT 1.2981• As of 3/2024
Institute of Bio- and Geosciences
Agrosphere (IBG-3)

Technology

A measuring system for determining the ammonium content of the soil and a method for evaluating the collected data and determining the nitrogen content.

Problem addressed

In agriculture, it is essential to check the fertilizer content of the soil before new fertilizer is applied, e.g. to avoid over-fertilization. The methods currently used involve manually taking a soil sample, extracting the sample and analyzing it. This is time-consuming, destructive and cost-intensive. Moreover, the detection limit is not accurate enough.

Solution

The presented technology is a non-invasive method in which the ammonium content of the soil can be measured in real time via the outgassing of the soil. The measuring system can also be attached to a tractor or robot to (autonomously) examine a large area.

This is not only faster than other methods but also more accurate, as show in the following table.

Benefits and Potential Use

In agriculture and similar sectors, the device can be used to determine the ammonium content of the soil and can thus reduce the amount of nitrogen fertilizer and the resulting environmental pollution. The benefits are particularly high in the area of precision farming.

Development Status and Next Steps

A proof of concept has been shown and field tests have been carried out. A mobile field device has been developed but needs further improvements, as well as the software.

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