Leaf wetness sensor for crop and greenhouse monitoring

HD3901

Leaf wetness sensor for crop and greenhouse monitoring measures 0…100% leaf area wetness on two surfaces, with capacitive detection, ± 5% accuracy, 2 x 0.5…3 V outputs and IP67 protection.

Introduction

Condensation on leaves can turn quickly into a crop health risk. HD3901 helps agricultural and floriculture teams track leaf wetness degree, supporting better timing of phytosanitary treatments to reduce the risk of mold and fungal infections where condensation is present.
 
The dual sensitive surface measures wetness on both the top and bottom sides of the leaf, reflecting the different drying times of each side. Its capacitive principle detects changes in dielectric constant caused by water droplets, including small droplets that common resistance or conductivity-based sensors may not detect. The white sensitive surface and selected materials simulate the thermal and radiative properties of a real leaf.
 
HD3901 provides two 0.5…3 V analog outputs corresponding to 0…100% wetness degree. Factory calibration, < 1 mA consumption, IP67 protection and treated surfaces resistant to atmospheric agents and pesticide chemicals make it practical for open-field, greenhouse and meteorological station use.

Two-sided insight
Measures top and bottom leaf wetness to reflect different drying times
Small droplet detection
Capacitive principle detects changes caused by even small water droplets
Field-ready housing
IP67 protection and sealed electronics support high-condensation environments
Easy integration
Two 0.5…3 V outputs correspond to 0…100% leaf area wetness

Features

Capacitive sensing

Grid-shaped electrodes detect changes in dielectric constant caused by water droplets on the sensitive surface.

Leaf-like surface

Materials and white color are selected to simulate the thermal and radiative properties of a real leaf.

Factory calibration

he sensor is supplied calibrated and does not require calibration by the user before installation.

Analog outputs

Two voltage outputs provide separate signals for the upper and lower sensitive surfaces, marked by the H symbol.

Cable versions

Models are available with a fixed 4-pole cable ending in open wires, in 5 m or 10 m lengths.

Installation angle

The sensor should be installed with the sensitive surface upward and inclined about 30÷45° to the ground.

Data logger connection

Use a data logger with at least two voltage analog inputs to record wetting and drying behavior over time.

Maintenance

Periodic cleaning with water and normal detergent helps avoid deposits that could alter measurement.