Dihedral sensor for evaluating tension, potential and activity of liquids

Abstract

In the dihedral sensor system, two flat plates are secured to a dihedron so that the distance (L) between the edge and the meniscus and the spacing between the plates (a) on the meniscus will be a function of the dihedron tangent (α). Thus, for pure water the tension (Ψ) is equal to the potential (T) and given by T=−2σ/[L tg(α)], wherein σ is the water surface tension. In order to measure water tension in the soil, the system is coupled to porous elements, while the sensor edge is pressed directly against roots and other plant organs. Water potential, instead, is measured with the edge positioned at a few micrometers from the sample and the response takes place after the exchange of a few picoliters of water, when the condition of balance of temperature and water vapor is approached. Visually, with a sliding gauge, one measures water tensions between zero and 0.3 MPa, while with the aid of a microscope the reading extends up to 3.0 MPa. The water activity corresponding to water potentials lower than −3.0 MPa can also be measured by adding a known number of molecules of solutes suitable for the water kept in the sensor.