MURATA MANUFACTURING 3-IN-1 SOIL SENSORS MAXIMISE CROP YIELD, QUALITY

KUALA LUMPUR, May 9 (Bernama) -- Murata Manufacturing Co Ltd has introduced a highly accurate three-in-one soil sensor for data-driven sustainable agriculture. 

By simultaneously monitoring the electrical conductivity (EC), water content and soil temperature, the sensor enables farmers to maximise the yield and quality of crops while minimising resources such as water and fertilisers.

“We have conducted demonstration tests using our soil sensors on a variety of fields and crops to verify their effectiveness,” says Yoshiyuki Oba, developer, Murata in a statement.

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“By using data for management and control, the soil sensors contribute to labour-saving in agricultural work and reduce waste of valuable resources such as water and fertiliser.

“They also contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as environmental problems like salt damage and the accompanying food problems caused by global climate change.”

The tip of the soil sensor contains a grid of 9 extra-sensitive electrodes that provide consistent measurements of the soil’s EC.

Using unique algorithms, these electrodes help measure and compare the EC of pore water, which is the water in between the soil particles, to the volume of the soil’s natural nutrients and added fertilisers.

These EC measurements are not affected by soil moisture content, thereby eliminating uncertainty in the soil and contributing to improving crop quality and yield by optimising fertilisers.

Protected to IP68 equivalent for dust and water, including rust proofing for use in harsh environments, these high-performing and energy-efficient soil sensors can run on three AA batteries for over half a year if the measurement interval is once every 30 minutes.

More details at https://www.murata.com/en-global/products/sensor/soil

-- BERNAMA