Density meter

The Medusa density meter (rhoC) measures the in-situ density of the surface layer of the soil. The rhoC determines the density using a weak radioactive source located on the tip of a rod whichis pushed down into the soil. On the surface a detector measures the remaining radiation emitted from the radioactive source. The attenuation of the radiation is then used to determine the density of the soil. In addition to soil density the rhoC can also measure soil composition (see Medusa sensor) and water content.

The rhoC is used to map densities of thin mud layers on tidal flats, density of roads and asphalt and can be used to determine watterlogging of agricultural fields.