CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Author : Barchyn, T.; and Hugenholtz, C.
Date : 2010.
Title : Comparing measurements of aeolian sediment transport with piezoelectric sensors: Is it possible?
Publication : Prairie Summit - Le sommet des Prairies. Joint Conference of Canadian Association of Geographers, Canadian Cartographic Association, Canadian Geomorphology Research Group, Canadian Remote Sensing Society / Conférence conjointe de l’Association canadienne des géographes, l’Association canadienne de cartographie, le Groupe canadien de recherche en géomorphologie, la Société canadienne de télédétection. June 1 to 5, 2010. Regina, Saskatchewan.
Issue : Program and Abstract Volume.
Page(s) : 76-77.
Abstract
Measurement of aeolian sediment transport is challenging; it varies at many scales: sub second to seasonal, centimetre to dunefield. However, accurate measurement is essential for developing and validating models used to predict the dynamics of aeolian landforms in arid and coastal environments (e.g., the Canadian Prairies). Piezoelectric sensors are one of the most common types of instruments used to measure aeolian sediment transport at a high temporal resolution. Unfortunately, little comparative data are available regarding sensor response. In this investigation, we tested the sediment transport detection capabilities of four piezoelectric sensors during an 11 day field deployment (Sensit H11-B, Sensit H11-LIN 10X, Safire, Sensit H11-LIN 1X). Results demonstrate dramatic differences between detection capabilities (reported as % of deployment transport was detected): Sensit H11-B: 7.212%, Sensit H11-LIN 10X: 3.260%, Safire: 1.832% and, Sensit H11-LIN 1X: 0.089%. We illustrate how these inconsistencies cannot be predicted from published specifications. We also demonstrate how estimates of sediment transport threshold vary substantially between sensors. Regardless of the precise cause of discrepancies, the very presence of variability is problematic. From the data presented here, we conclude that comparison of aeolian sediment transport measurements with piezoelectric sensors is, at best, tenuous.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology