Sensing moisture content in grain

Research has established the basis for several new techniques that should eventually find practical use as new sensors are developed for application in more sophisticated farming, grain marketing, and grain processing arenas. The need for reliable online grain moisture sensors is already apparent in yield monitoring processes on harvesters employing precision farming principles. The ability to more closely monitor grain moisture content will provide important information for better grain handling and storage operation management, and resultant high-quality products. Similar instrumentation can provide energy savings in crop drying and improved quality of processed products, all with important implications in maintaining competitive market positions in the global economy.