Belgrade : University of Belgrade - Faculty of Forestry
Abstract
Dripping rainfall simulators (DRS) are important instruments in soil research. However, a large number of non-standardized simulators have been developed, making it difficult to combine and compare the results of different studies in which they were used. To overcome such a problem, it is necessary to become familiar with the design and performances of the current rainfall simulators applied. It has been conducted a search for scientific papers describing dripping rainfall simulators and papers that are thematically related to soil research using DRS. Simulator design analysis was performed integrally, for simulators with more than one dripper (DRS>1) and with one dripper (DRS=1). Descriptive and numerical data were separated from the papers and sorted by proposed categories, according to which the types and subtypes of used simulators are determined. The six groups of elements that simulators could consist of have been determined, as well as their characteristics, representation, and statistical analyses of their available numerical parameters. The characteristics of simulators are analyzed and presented, thus is facilitated the selection of simulators for future research. Description of future simulators in accordance with the basic groups of simulator elements should provide all data necessary for their easier replication and provide a step closer to the reduction of design diversification and standardization of rain simulators intended for soil research
