Dielectric Leaf Wetness

The Leaf Wetness Sensor approximates leaves' thermal mass and radiative properties to mimic a real leaf's wetness state closely. The way it works is simple: if the canopy is wet, the sensor is wet; if the canopy is dry, the sensor is dry. The Leaf Wetness Sensor measures the dielectric constant of the top of the sensor. The dielectric constants of water (80) and ice (5) are higher than air (1), so the sensor can determine the presence or absence of wetness using this method.

Sensor Benefits

Because the Leaf Wetness Sensor measures the dielectric constant, moisture does not need to bridge electrical traces for the sensor to detect moisture; the presence of water or ice anywhere on the sensor surface will be detected. Unlike common resistance-based sensors, it requires no painting or user calibration and can detect ice presence.

Specifications

• Measurement time: 10 ms
• Power: 3VDC @ 2mA to 5VDC @ 7mA
• Output: 250 to 1500 mV
• Operating Environment: -10C to 60C
• Expected Lifetime: 2+ years continuous use
• Probe Dimensions: 11.2cm x 5.8cm x 0.075cm
• Cable Length: 5m standard, extension cables available

All Sensors work with our Wireless Sensor Node, STS-Node, allowing for easy connection to our IoT Platform.