Water Consumption Analysis of an Automated Irrigation System Based on Soil Moisture Monitoring

Nomenjanahary Solosene Elie Solosene, Nomenjanahary Solosene Elie Solosene

Abstract


This article presents the development, implementation, and evaluation of an automated irrigation system designed for cotton cultivation on clay-sandy soil. Efficient irrigation management is essential for optimizing crop yield, particularly in soils with specific water retention characteristics. The proposed system integrates soil moisture sensors, solenoid valves, and a microcontroller-based control unit using an Arduino Uno board to automate the irrigation process. The water supply is managed through a 5000-liter reservoir, which is refilled by a 370-watt pump. The system operates based on soil moisture thresholds, activating the solenoid valves when the moisture level drops below 35 percent and deactivating them when it reaches 50 percent, ensuring optimal hydration for cotton growth.

To assess system performance, experiments were conducted under different climatic conditions. The study includes a detailed analysis of soil moisture variation and water consumption in both sunny and cloudy conditions. Solar irradiation significantly influences soil evaporation, leading to differences in irrigation frequency and water usage. Under sunny conditions with a solar irradiation coefficient of 7929 watt-hours per square meter, moisture depletion occurs faster, requiring more frequent irrigation cycles. In contrast, under cloudy conditions with a reduced solar irradiation coefficient of 3172 watt-hours per square meter, soil moisture retention is prolonged, reducing water consumption.

The results demonstrate that automated irrigation based on real-time soil moisture monitoring improves water efficiency while adapting to environmental variations, making it a sustainable solution for optimizing irrigation in cotton cultivation.

Keywords


Water pump, Reservoir, Pipes, Sprinklers, Solenoid valves, Soil moisture sensors, Arduino board

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.52155/ijpsat.v49.2.7051

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