Applications of microcomputer-based image digitization in soil and crop sciences

A procedure for microcomputer-based digitization of images is proposed using an IBM-PC microcomputer and a TECMAR digitizer board. Using cross sections of impregnated porous materials such as glass beads, sandstones and soils, procedures are described to determine the porosity, pore (chord) size distribution, and permeability of porous materials. The estimation of root length and width is also carried out using image digitization. A final example is the measurement of eroded soil areas from aerial photographs.