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Automated Time-Lapse Complex Resistivity Imaging for Non-invasive Characterization of Plant Root Functional Processes


EMSL Project ID
60004

Abstract

This proposal targets the microbial/rhizosphere sensors value stream to support complex resistivity tomography (CRT) as a unique remote imaging technology for automated root and rhizosphere imaging. Development of this unique capability will advance the in situ non-destructive detection and quantification of root morphology, signaling, chemical exchange, and nutrient acquisition in the rhizosphere. Technical objectives for this work are i) producing and testing of CRT electrodes capable of functioning in variably saturated soils and ii) designing automated software to process data and generate images of the rhizosphere. Supporting EMSL users with these two products removes technical barriers, establishes bench scale experimental tools, and enables non-invasive time-lapse imaging of rhizosphere processes. Steady demand from PNNL staff and external collaborators is anticipated as publications investigating roots with CRT have quadrupled since 2015.

Project Details

Start Date
2021-10-01
End Date
2022-04-22
Status
Closed

Team

Principal Investigator

Adam Mangel
Institution
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Team Members

Timothy Johnson
Institution
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory