Using fibre-optic sensing for non-invasive, continuous dendrometry of mature tree trunks
Résumé
Dendrometry is the main non-invasive macroscopic technique commonly used in plant physiology and
ecophysysiology studies. Over the years several types of dendrometric techniques have been developed,
each with their respective strengths and drawbacks. Automatic and continuous monitoring solutions
are being developed, but are still limited, particularly for non-invasive monitoring of large-diameter
trunks. In this study, we propose a new type of automated dendrometer based on distributed
fibre-optic sensing that continuously measures the change in stem circumference, is non-invasive, and
has no upper limit on the trunk diameter on which it can be installed. We perform a three-month
validation experiment during which we deploy a fibre-optic cable at three localities around the
trunks of two specimens of Brachychiton. We verify the accuracy of this new method through
comparison against a conventional point-dendrometer, and we observe a consistent time lag between
the various measurement locations that varies with the meteorological conditions. Finally, we discuss
the feasibility of the fibre-based dendrometer in the context of existing dendrometric techniques and
practical experimental considerations.
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