Imaging Spectroscopy of salt-affected soils: Model-based integrated method

Abstract

In the literature, a compound process (a series of processes, together) termed as salinization/alkalinization, is referred to as the most frequently occurring land degradation type in semi and arid regions. These processes are the product of a complex interaction of various factors, which cause changes within a time period of about a decade, generally irreversible, resulting in increase of salt in soils. Excessive salts precipitation in soil profile develops to the formation of salt-affected soils affecting the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil, and eventually leads to partial or complete loss of soil productivity. It has a large impact in semi-arid regions where the lands are extremely needed for agricultural practices to supply required food and fibre for their rapidly increasing population, while human-induced factors and natural conditions are highly contributing to expansion of saline areas. This conflictive situation is a major concern at local and global scales where enormous efforts had focused on slowing down the salinization and preventing its progression. As a part of these efforts, enormous scientific studies had been carried out to combat salinization. These studies had focused on providing comprehensive understanding of the process, developing methods and algorithms, and providing various application tools. Optical remote sensing, electromagnetic geophysics and solute modelling are the three most used disciplines for detection, prediction and mapping of salt-affected soils.