A Field Soil Moisture Study Using Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) and Time Domain Transmissivity (TDT) Sensors

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a field study conducted at three different locations close to the campus of University of Texas at Arlington, Texas. Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) and Time Domain Transmissivity (TDT) Sensors were installed at depths of 5 cm, 10 cm, 25 cm, 50 cm, and 100 cm below ground level. The soils at the three sites were tested for basic geotechnical properties such as size analysis, specific gravity, density, and hydraulic conductivity. In-situ infiltration tests were also performed to determine filed hydraulic conductivity. The observed moisture data response very well with recorded rainfall event and infiltration were greatly affected by rain intensity and duration.