Device for the field measurements of frequency-dependent soil properties in the frequency range of lightning currents

Abstract

Existing approaches for the field measurements of the frequency-dependent soil properties take a significant amount of time, making it difficult to obtain new experimental data and study the electrical soil properties further. However, a relatively uncomplicated measurement device assembled from accessible electronic components can make the measurements almost as easy as those for the regular low-frequency resistivity. This article presents a detailed description of such a device: the description includes the functional scheme, pseudocodes for central parts of the calculation algorithm, used electronic components, and working principle of the device. This article discusses the reasons behind the chosen parameters of the device (such as isolation between the measurement circuits, generated signal waveform, and usage of the electrode arrays) and addresses other possible approaches for the measurements. This paper also provides several measurement results and a comparison with a calculation result for a particular electrode array configuration. Finally, this work describes essential aspects affecting the accuracy of measurement results.

Investigation Into Variation of Resistivity and Permittivity of Aqueous Solutions and Soils With Frequency and Current Density

“…A large number of investigations have been carried out to measure soil/electrolyte parameters in the laboratory [2]- [5], [7], [10], [15], [16], [33]- [43] while some tests were done in the field [44], [45] . Details of the test medium, test apparatus, arrangements and energizations used in these investigations are described.…”

“…The bulk soil parameters were calculated assuming hemispherical current propagation. Kuklin has developed an intricate device capable of measurement of soil parameters in-situ using an array of voltage and current electrodes [45]. Clark et al [53] used a number of different test instruments to conduct variable frequency tests on rods and grids submerged in a lake and found significant current density dependence of electrode impedance at low current magnitudes.…”