Development of a Low-Cost Resistivity Meter for Local Groundwater Survey

Abstract

Abstract The researchers developed a low-cost resistivity meter with a built-in data file storage system using locally available parts. This effort was done in partnership with the National Water Resources Board and the Department of Science and Technology under the Water for Tourism project for water quality monitoring in tourist areas in the Philippines such as Boracay and Caticlan. The resistivity meter system consists of a power supply module, a sensor module, and an equipment module, built using locally available materials and equipment, emulating the commercially available PASI model 16 GL-N. Due to pandemic restrictions, the developed prototype could only be tested on one soil type area. Using a Schlumberger array configuration, the results are comparably similar to the benchmark test results using the PASI. Further work will be performed on future versions of this prototype such as the possibility of multi-electrode set-ups and some user design improvements, as recommended by partner organizations.