Measuring device for optical properties of plant leaves
2021
Rakutko, S., Federal Scientific Agroengineering Centre VIM, Moscow (Russian Federation) | Rakutko, E., Federal Scientific Agroengineering Centre VIM, Moscow (Russian Federation) | Mishanov, A., Federal Scientific Agroengineering Centre VIM, Moscow (Russian Federation)
Optical leaf properties serve as an important indicator of complex plant physiology under a broad range of environmental conditions. However, available relevant measuring instruments have several disadvantages. The study aimed to design a leaf photocolorimeter as a tool for a further comprehensive assessment of the impact of environmental factors on plants and optimisation of artificial plant lighting. The technical objective was to make this device user-friendly and improve its functional and ergonomic characteristics. The device had the following parts: the RGB LED block of BL-L515RGBC-CD type with the radiation peaks at 430 nm (blue), 525 nm (green) and 630 nm (red); a photodetector; a processor with Arduino UNO Rev3 board; LCD display; a keyboard; a power supply unit; a clamp; a thickness sensor; a lever; and a secure digital memory card. The measured leaf thickness, transmittances and optical density in spectral ranges, as well as the measurement time and sample identification record, formed a row in the database stored in the device’s memory. Variation in the pigment content in cherry leaves, optical characteristics of plant leaves grown under natural conditions, and optical characteristics of tomato leaves under artificial lighting were measured in a set of experiments. The use of the device in the experiments provided for objective estimation of the plant leaf ageing process by the content of various pigments in the leaves. For this purpose, the specific optical density needed to be measured. The process estimation by leaf optical properties had a lower data variance and was more reliable than estimation by other biometric parameters. The designed device tests proved its wide capabilities in the rapid assessment of the growing plant status. Its practical application in greenhouse horticulture can help improve crop performance and yield quality.
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