Sensors & Electronics
Physical Property Sensors
Nearshore Seabed Light Measurements (309)
Problem: Need to know the amount of growth-promoting light reaching sea grasses under over-water structures (docks, etc.)
Project Activity Scope: Sensors and Devices through Instruments
PNNL Solution:
- Utilize Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) sensors to measure growth-promoting light at the seabed below structures
- Design method to determine effect of various dock surface materials on detected light levels
- Compare light requirements for seagrass health to light under dock; predict habitat suitability
Capabilities Employed to Meet Client Needs: Applied use of sensor for measuring light appropriate to plant growth and survival in an underwater environment; sampling design plan; integration of sensors with data loggers and data analysis software; calculation of light predicted to reach seagrass; comparison with light levels known to support seagrass growth and survival; delineation of regions under and around the dock that do or do not support seagrass growth and survival.
Selected Links to Related Information:
- Similar Technology Examples (Same or Different Application)
- Related Websites
- PNNL Marine Sciences Laboratory at a Glance (.pdf 2.3MB)
- Special Report on PNNL Marine Sciences Laboratory Activities(.pdf 6.48MB)
Contact: Sue Sargeant
