Analysis of polarization characteristics of plant canopies using ground-based remote sensing measurements

•The reflection and polarization properties of plant were studied.•The compiled electronic database of the spectrophotometric information of plant.•Polarization characteristics are a source of useful data on the state of plants.

The paper presents results and analysis of a study on polarized characteristics of the reflectance factor of different plant canopies under field conditions, using optical remote sensing techniques. Polarization characteristics were recorded from the elevated work platform at heights of 10-18 m in June and July. Measurements were performed using a double-beam spectrophotometer with a polarized light filter attachment, within the spectral range from 400 to 820 nm. The viewing zenith angle was below 20 degree. Birch (Betila pubescens), pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), wheat (Triticum acstivum) [L.] crops, corn (Zea mays L. ssp. mays) crops, and various grass canopies were used in this study. The following polarization characteristics were studied: the reflectance factor of the canopy with the polarizer adjusted to transmit the maximum and minimum amounts of light (Rmax and Rmin), polarized component of the reflectance factor (Rq), and the degree of polarization (Р). Wheat, corn, and grass canopies have higher Rmax and Rmin values than forest plants. The Rq and P values are higher for the birch than for the pine within the wavelength range between 430 and 740 nm. The study shows that polarization characteristics of plant canopies may be used as an effective means of decoding remote sensing data.