Real-time Nitrogen Leaching Monitoring using IoT Ground Probes
Abstract
Nitrogen leaching from agricultural soils represents a significant environmental concern, contributing to groundwater contamination and eutrophication of surface water bodies. This research presents the development and field validation of an Internet of Things (IoT)-based monitoring system employing subsurface electrochemical probes for continuous nitrogen leaching detection. The system integrates ion-selective electrodes, soil moisture sensors, and temperature monitors connected via LoRaWAN communication protocol to a cloud-based analytics platform. Field trials conducted across three agricultural sites over eight months demonstrated measurement precision with correlation coefficient r=0.96 when compared against standard laboratory methods. The system achieved temporal resolution of 10-minute intervals, successfully identifying leaching events associated with rainfall and irrigation activities. Peak nitrate concentrations reached 82.3 mg/L, exceeding regulatory thresholds by 64%. Data analysis revealed strong correlations between soil moisture content and nitrate mobility (r=0.89, p<0.01). The IoT monitoring framework reduced operational costs by 58% compared to conventional sampling approaches while providing actionable insights for precision fertilizer management. This technology offers transformative potential for sustainable agricultural practices and environmental protection strategies.
How to Cite This Article
Rakesh Chandra Srivastava, Meena Subramaniam Iyer (2020). Real-time Nitrogen Leaching Monitoring using IoT Ground Probes . Journal of Agricultural Digitalization Research (JADR), 1(1), 58-63.