An Improved Heat Pulse Probe for Estimation of Soil Water Flux Density.

There remains a constant need for newer, quicker, more cost effective and accurate means of estimating water storage and transmission within the soil. Heat pulse probe technology has shown to be an effective tool for estimating soil hydraulic properties.  Various studies have shown the relative accuracy of water content and soil water flux measurements using this methodology.  However, our previous work still noted an unaccounted overestimation of soil properties partially due to the design and construction of the heat pulse probe.  This error was particularly magnified in fine textured soils.  These findings are in agreement with other previously published studies which discuss errors due to sensor spacing, sensor thickness, and epoxy filling of the heater needle.  Our objective is to further investigate the manufacturing of the heat pulse probe and calibration techniques to develop an improved methodology for estimating soil water flux.