Research on wind erosion processes and controlling factors based on wind tunnel test and 3D laser scanning technology

The study of wind erosion processes is of great importance to the prevention and control of soil wind erosion.In this study,three structurally intact soil samples were collected from the steppe of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region,China and placed in a wind tunnel where they were subjected to six different wind speeds(10,15,17,20,25,and 30 m/s)to simulate wind erosion in the wind tunnel.After each test,the soil surfaces were scanned by a 3D laser scanner to create a high-resolution Digital Elevation Model(DEM),and the changes in wind erosion mass and microtopography were quantified.Based on this,we performed further analysis of wind erosion-controlling factors.The study results showed that the average measurement error between the 3D laser scanning method and weighing method was 6.23%for the three undisturbed soil samples.With increasing wind speed,the microtopography on the undisturbed soil surface first became smooth,and then fine stripes and pits gradually developed.In the initial stage of wind erosion processes,the ability of the soil to resist wind erosion was mainly affected by the soil hardness.In the late stage of wind erosion processes,the degree of soil erosion was mainly affected by soil organic matter and CaCO_(3)content.The results of this study are expected to provide a theoretical basis for soil wind erosion control and promote the application of 3D laser scanners in wind erosion monitoring.