Potential use of Graphene-Like Nanomaterials in Soil Sensors and Moisture Monitoring

Advancing precision agriculture requires materials that enhance the performance and sensitivity of soil-monitoring technologies.This study explores the synthesis and characterization of graphene-like carbon nanomaterials obtained via arc discharge method, assessing their suitability for use in agricultural soil sensors and moisture detection systems.Graphene-based nanomaterials were synthesized using graphite electrodes in an inert nitrogen atmosphere under arc discharge conditions at 75V with variable current strengths (50-400A).The synthesized materials were characterized using Raman spectroscopy, SEM, and BET surface area analysis.Their electrophysical properties including dielectric permittivity, electrical resistance and conductivity were evaluated across a temperature range of 293-483K and frequencies of 1, 5, and 10kHz.The synthesized nanomaterials demonstrated multilayer graphene structures with high degrees of graphitization and longrange order, verified by characteristic 2D Raman peaks.SEM imaging revealed flake-like graphene morphology with high specific surface areas (up to 159.7m/g).Dielectric permittivity values exceeded 10 at elevated temperatures, and the materials showed semiconductor behavior across the measured range.These properties suggest strong potential for enhancing sensitivity and performance in soil moisture and conductivity sensors.Graphene-like nanomaterials produced via arc discharge exhibit the structural, electrical, and thermal stability necessary for application in agricultural sensing devices.Their high permittivity and conductivity make them excellent candidates for integration into soil moisture monitoring systems, contributing to more efficient water use and improved crop management in precision agriculture.