Apparatus for simulating soil mechanical impedance on root growth potential

摘要

The apparatus for simulating soil mechanical impedance on the root growth potential attempts to mimic the growth patterns of soil roots. The penetration probe consists of a right conical element attached to a shaft for forcing the conical probe into the soil. The tip of the cone is provided with a plurality of bores which deliver a polymerized carbohydrate lubricant to the cone during soil penetration. This results in a reduction in the axial reaction forces and more accurately mimics the radial growth patterns of plant roots. Moreover, the lubricant mimics lubricants which plant roots naturally exude.