Calibração de sensor para monitoramento da umidade do solo

Abstract

Knowing the current soil moisture accurately is essential for efficient irrigation management, aiming to rationalize water resources on the basis of the sustainability and profitability of irrigated crops. Therefore, the objective of this work was to calibrate the model YL-69 sensor and propose a calibration equation for the Cariri Ceará region. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse using a Dystrophic Red‒Yellow Argisol, which was placed in four 5 L pots, with humidity monitored daily from saturation to air drying. Calibration was evaluated through the use of statistical indices. The calibration equation presented an R2 of 0.99 and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.03 m 3 m-3. It was concluded that the calibration of the YL-69 sensor presents accurate volumetric soil moisture readings; however, its use is not recommended without the use of an adjustment equation.