In the quest for sustainable and more efficient agriculture, researchers globally are engaged in collecting field data to comprehend the relationship between management practices and greenhouse gas (GHG) soil exchanges. Agriculture accounts for approximately 10-15% of total global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Since 1990, global agricultural emissions have risen by over 20% due to population growth. The data is crucial for improving model estimations and evaluating and optimizing agricultural tools and systems. Beyond emissions, researchers track the effectiveness of fertilizer mixtures, selection for different crops, application frequency, and watering methods. Additionally, they work to optimize land management practices such as cover crops, tillage, crop rotation, and livestock grazing.
Addressing key agricultural research challenges
Simplifying field protocols
Obtaining rapid and repeatable results in agricultural research is critical. Traditional manual sampling methods pose several challenges:
| Error sources | Manual sample handling introduces many error sources that reduce data quality. Differences in sample gathering methods among researchers make data less repeatable, and high training demands are placed on all researchers to ensure consistent sample gathering. |
| Low-frequency sampling | Manual sampling only allows low-frequency sampling, limiting researchers’ visibility into soil flux changes that occur within minutes. Data is constrained to a few samples each hour. |
| Elevated operating costs | Manual sampling incurs high operating costs. Sampling large agricultural fields with numerous collars requires significant time and resources, and external lab costs for processing samples are substantial. |
| Field analyzer challenges | Competitive field analyzers often designed for laboratory use can produce unstable results in field conditions due to vibration, orientation, etc. They may also require additional accessories for reliable field operation. |
Handling equipment logistics in the field
Transporting multiple accessories into the field is another challenge:
| Manual sampling equipment | Manual sampling methods require a large amount of equipment. |
| Field analyzer accessories | Field analyzers may require additional accessories such as pumps, filters, power sources, and data collection devices. |
| Measuring desired emissions | To measure critical emissions like carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, researchers may need to transport multiple analyzers or sensors. |
Future-proof measurement for research programs
Research programs need to adapt measurement capabilities as goals and funding sources change:
| Adjusting measurement capabilities | Changing measurement ranges or gases measured with existing equipment is often difficult and typically requires costly manufacturer services. |
| Refining measurement methods | Long-term studies may require refining measurement methods over time, necessitating new manual sampling processes, equipment, or specific accessories for field analyzers. |
| Adding automation | Implementing automation to expand measurement points may require manufacturer-specific accessories or programming. |
| Increasing research work | Expanding departmental research outside the typical field season can necessitate new sampling approaches and equipment. |
Benefits of portable gas analyzers in agriculture research
Gasmet’s portable multi-gas FTIR analyzers address these specific challenges faced in agricultural research. By eliminating the need for vial preparation and manual sampling, our technology resolves issues related to data consistency and error sources. Traditional methods often involve extensive training and manual handling, which can introduce variability and reduce data quality. Our analyzers connect seamlessly to any chamber, providing real-time, high-quality measurements that mitigate the limitations of low-frequency sampling. This means you can monitor soil flux changes within minutes and avoid the high costs and delays associated with sending samples to external labs.
Handling equipment logistics in the field is another significant challenge our analyzers help solve. Traditional methods require transporting a large volume of equipment, including pumps, filters, and power sources, which can be cumbersome and inefficient. Our compact and robust analyzers reduce this burden by integrating essential features like internal batteries and durable design. This minimizes the need for additional accessories, simplifying field operations and making it easier to manage and transport your equipment.
Moreover, our analyzers are built with adaptability in mind, addressing the need for future-proof research solutions. As research goals and funding sources evolve, our GT5000 Terra can accommodate changes in measurement ranges and gases without requiring costly modifications or specialized accessories. This flexibility allows you to refine measurement methods and expand automation capabilities with ease, ensuring that your research tools remain aligned with your evolving objectives and long-term study requirements.
Greenhouse gas flux measurement guide
Explore how Gasmet’s innovative technology can transform your research approach by providing precise, real-time data and simplifying fieldwork logistics, with our Greenhouse gas flux measurement guide. It’s a must-have for researchers and academicians!
Applications in Agricultural Research
Gasmet instruments are invaluable for a wide range of agricultural research applications, including:
- Studying soil carbon sequestration processes.
- Analyzing the impact of fertilizer application on N2O emissions.
- Assessing the efficacy of sustainable farming techniques.
- Monitoring the effects of different agricultural practices on GHG emissions.
- Calculating carbon and nitrogen footprints related to manure use in agriculture
Customer story: Read how Texas A&M AgriLife Research studied agronomic effects of cover cropping and its effect on greenhouse gas emissions with our gas analyzer
GT5000 Terra – Our solution for soil flux measurements in agriculture
GT5000 Terra can measure all gases of your interest simultaneously, saving you time and money. Equipped with wireless communication, you can get your measurement results in real-time on your laptop or tablet. Portability makes it especially effective on field conditions.
