Attempts to apply fiber optic sensing technology to desert research: laboratory measurement and field observation on the movement of desert sand particles.

Abstract

Sand particle movement can lead to sand collision, which may even generate large amounts of sand dust and finally trigger a sandstorm. However, there is a lack of effective observation methods for sand particle scale at present due to the harsh environment of the desert. In this article, we attempt to use fiber optic sensing technology to address the above issues. Based on that, laboratory measurement and field observation of sand particle motion are carried out. In the laboratory, the sand particle vibration is detected. In the field observation, the results we obtained are consistent with the actual movement of sand particles. The proposed technique exhibits high resolution and good repeatability for sand particle motion measurement and observation. This work will promote the application of optical fiber sensing technology as a new means for desert research.