Methods and systems for measuring a nitrate concentration level of a soil, and techniques for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in the soil

Abstract

There are provided a method and a system for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil. The method includes extracting a sample from the soil; once the sample is at least partially dried, filtering the sample to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution; and determining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound. The system includes a mixing and extraction module configured to circulate a fluid; a filter configured to receive a soil sample and produce a filtered sample solution through a plurality of holes; and a chamber surrounding the filter, the chamber being configured to receive the filtered sample solution from the filter. The system includes a flow control module and an analysis module configured to characterize a property of the filtered sample solution.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The technical field generally relates to systems and methods for measuring soil properties, and more particularly concerns techniques for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil. BACKGROUND Nitrate pollution or contamination is a serious environmental problem which may have several negative consequences on human’s existence or daily activities. The excess of nitrogen in the air and water can be associated with human’s agricultural activities. However, estimating the concentration of nitrate present in our environment remains challenging. Existing solutions suffer from a lack of precision, reliability, and efficiency. There is thus a need for a system, device, as well as methods that address or alleviate at least some of the challenges presented above. SUMMARY In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil. The method includes extracting a sample from the soil; once the sample is at least partially dried, filtering the sample to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil; and determining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil. In some embodiments, the sample is air dried. In some embodiments, the sample is dried with at least one of: an oven, flames, a solenoid, a dehumidifier, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, said filtering the sample to obtain the filtered sample is carried out using at least one of: a sieve, a mesh, a strainer, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, said filtering the sample to obtain the filtered sample is carried out using a vibrating plate. In some embodiments, said filtering the sample to obtain the filtered sample includes removing at least a portion of the macroscopic components contained in the sample. In some embodiments, the liquid is water. In some embodiments, the liquid is an aqueous solution. In some embodiments, said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a spray gun. In some embodiments, the spray gun is a high-pressure spray gun. In some embodiments, the high-pressure spray gun is operated at a pressure of about 1000 pounds per square inch (PSI) to about 4000 PSI during said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution. In some embodiments, said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a blender or a mixer. In some embodiments, said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a laboratory shaker or a vortex shaker. In some embodiments, said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a paint mixer. In some embodiments, said filtering the sample solution to obtain the filtered sample solution is carried out using a fine filter, the fine filter having pores of about 2 microns. In some embodiments, the fine filter is a paper filter, a polymer filter, a metal filter, a ceramic filter, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, said filtering the sample solution to obtain the filtered sample solution is carried out using a screw press, a piston, an aeropress, vacuum, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the method further includes micro-filtering the filtered sample solution to obtain a micro-filtered sample solution. In some embodiments, said micro-filtering the filtered sample solution is carried out using a ceramic having pores of about 2 microns. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution is determined using Raman spectroscopy. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution is determined using absorbance spectroscopy. In some embodiments, the absorbance spectroscopy includes determining a spectral response of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution in a range extending from about 200 nm to about 300 nm. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution is determined using an ion selective electrode. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution is determined using a chromotropic acid solution. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution is determined using a colorimetric method. In some embodiments, the colorimetric method is a cadmium reduction method. In some embodiments, said determining the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution includes determining a concentration level of nitrate present in the sample solution. In some embodiments, said determining the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution includes determining a concentration level of at least one target compound present in the filtered sample solution, said at least one target compound present in the filtered sample solution being selected from: minerals, organic molecules, nitrites, nitrates, phosphates, carbonates, ammonium, ammonia, sulfates, urea, organic matter, organic carbon, humic acid, fluvic acid, agronomically relevant inorganic compounds, arsenates, silicates, metal oxides, monoatomic ions, calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron, manganese, copper, boron, zinc, aluminum, chloride, persistent organic pollutant (POP) residues, derivatives of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, and ingredients or components present in pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for conditioning a sample extracted from a soil, the soil containing an ionic compound. The method includes, once the sample has at least partially been dried, filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; and filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil. In some embodiments, said filtering the sample is carried out using at a sieve, a mesh, a strainer, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, said filtering the sample is carried out using a vibrating plate. In some embodiments, said filtering the sample includes removing at least a portion of the macroscopic components contained in the sample. In some embodiments, the liquid is water. In some embodiments, the liquid is an aqueous solution. In some embodiments, said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a spray gun. In some embodiments, the spray gun is a high-pressure spray gun. In some embodiments, the high-pressure spray gun is operated at a pressure of about 1000 pounds per square inch (PSI) to about 4000 PSI during said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution. In some embodiments, said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a blender or a mixer. In some embodiments, said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a laboratory shaker or a vortex shaker. In some embodiments, said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a paint mixer. In some embodiments, said filtering the sample solution to obtain the filtered sample solution is carried out using a fine filter, the fine filter having pores of about 2 microns. In some embodiments, the fine filter is a paper filter, a polymer filter, a metal filter, a ceramic filter, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, said filtering the sample is carried out using at least one of: a screw press, a piston, an aeropress, vacuum, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the method further includes micro-filtering the filtered sample solution to obtain a micro-filtered sample solution. In some embodiments, said filtering the sample solution is carried out using a ceramic having pores of about 2 microns. In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil. The method includes extracting a sample from the soil; filtering the sample to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil; and determining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil. In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for conditioning a sample extracted from a soil, the soil containing an ionic compound. The method includes filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; and filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil. In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a sample extracted from a soil. The method includes filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil; and determining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil. In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a system for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil. The system includes a mixing and extraction module, the mixing and extraction module including an inlet connectable to a fluid source, the inlet being configured to circulate a fluid from the fluid source inside the mixing and extraction module; a filter having an outer periphery, the outer periphery including a plurality of holes therein, the filter being configured to receive a soil sample therein, and, upon circulation of the fluid, produce a filtered sample solution through the plurality of holes; and a chamber surrounding the filter, the chamber being configured to receive the filtered sample solution from the filter; a flow control module to control a circulation of the fluid within the mixing and extraction module; and an analysis module configured to characterize at least one property of the filtered sample solution and determine an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil. In some embodiments, the filter is a cylinder. In some embodiments, the system further includes a mounting plate supporting the mixing and extraction module, the flow control module and the analysis module. In some embodiments, the system further includes a stabilizing mechanism disposed beneath the mounting plate. In some embodiments, the analysis module includes at least one of: an optical detector, a chemical detector, an electrical detector, an electrochemical detector, a capacitive detector, a heat detector, a thermometer, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the system further includes a data transmission unit configured to wirelessly transmit data produced by the analysis module. In some embodiments, the system further includes a geolocation unit. In some embodiments, the fluid source is a tank. In some embodiments, the fluid is water. In some embodiments, the chamber has a bottom surface, the chamber further including a transparent window positioned at the bottom surface of the chamber. In some embodiments, the system further includes an optical emitter and an optical detector positioned under the transparent window. In some embodiments, the optical emitter and the optical detector define an optical axis substantially parallel to the bottom surface of the chamber. In some embodiments, the optical emitter and the optical detector are positioned at an angle of about 90° one with respect to the other. In some embodiments, the optical emitter and the optical detector defining an optical axis substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface of the chamber. In some embodiments, the system further includes a load cell configured to measure a weight of the soil sample prior and after the fluid has circulated within the mixing and extraction module. In some embodiments, the flow control module includes a measurement channel, wherein the measurement channel is configured to circulate the filtered sample solution through the analysis module. In some embodiments, the flow control module is configured to circulate a cleaning fluid through the filter to clean the same. In some embodiments, the flow control module is configured to circulate the cleaning fluid to clean the water source. Other features and advantages of the present description will become more apparent upon reading of the following non-restrictive description of specific embodiments thereof, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figures 1 to 41 illustrate various aspects, features, and implementations of, or related to, the present techniques. DETAILED DESCRIPTION In the following description, similar features in the drawings have been given similar reference numerals, and, to not unduly encumber the figures, some elements may not be indicated on some figures if they were already identified in one or more preceding figures. It should also be understood herein that the elements of the drawings are not necessarily depicted to scale, since emphasis is placed upon clearly illustrating the elements and structures of the present embodiments. The terms “a”, “an” and “one” are defined herein to mean “at least one”, that is, these terms do not exclude a plural number of elements, unless stated otherwise. It should also be noted that terms such as “substantially”, “generally” and “about”, that modify a value, condition, or characteristic of a feature of an exemplary embodiment, should be understood to mean that the value, condition or characteristic is defined within tolerances that are acceptable for the proper operation of this exemplary embodiment for its intended application. In the present description, the terms “connected”, “coupled”, and variants and derivatives thereof, refer to any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements. The connection or coupling between the elements may be acoustical, mechanical, physical, optical, operational, electrical, wireless, or a combination thereof. In the present description, the expression “based on” is intended to mean “based at least partly on”, that is, this expression can mean “based solely on” or “based partially on”, and so should not be interpreted in a limited manner. More particularly, the expression “based on” could also be understood as meaning “depending on”, “representative of”, “indicative of”, “associated with” or similar expressions. In the present description, the terms “light” and “optical”, and variants and derivatives thereof, are used to refer to radiation in any appropriate region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The terms “light” and “optical” are therefore not limited to visible light, but can also include, without being limited to, the infrared and ultraviolet regions. For example, in some implementations, the present techniques can be used with electromagnetic signals having wavelengths ranging from about 250 nm to 1 pm, and, for example, between 200 nm et 300 nm. However, this range is provided for illustrative purposes only and some implementations of the present techniques may operate outside this range. Also, the skilled person will appreciate that the definition of the ultraviolet, visible and infrared ranges in terms of spectral ranges, as well as the dividing lines between them, can vary depending on the technical field or the definitions under consideration, and are not meant to limit the scope of applications of the present techniques. It will be appreciated that positional descriptors indicating the position or orientation of one element with respect to another element are used herein for ease and clarity of description and should, unless otherwise indicated, be taken in the context of the figures, and should not be considered limiting. It will be understood that spatially relative terms (e.g., “outer” and “inner”, “outside” and “inside” and “top” and “bottom”) are intended to encompass different positions and orientations in use or operation of the present embodiments, in addition to the positions and orientations exemplified in the figures. The term “field” is herein used to refer to a region of land where trees, plants, crops and the like usually grow. The term “soil” is herein used for qualifying the underground area beneath the surface of the field, which may include the surface or a portion thereof. It should be noted that the expressions “trees”, “plants”, “crops”, synonyms and derivatives thereof may encompass a broad variety of organisms and should not be considered limitative. Nonlimitative examples of trees, plants or crops may include seedlings, ornamental crops, ornamental plants, plugs, liners, fruits, small fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, herbs, young plants, high-value crops, perennial plants, annual plants, biennial plants, grain, grass, cereal, and many others. The trees, plants or crops may be produced for human food, non-human food, or non-food applications. Of note, the present techniques may be used to characterize different substrates such as, for example and without being limitative: compost, manure, food, and / or plants. The techniques can also be useful for characterizing slurries, purees, liquids or suspensions, for example: compost, manure, fruit or vegetable purees or juices, wine, alcohol, milk, and many others. Of course, these examples are nonlimitative and serve an illustrative purpose only. The present disclosure relates to techniques, including methods and systems, for measuring, determining, estimating, or measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil. The techniques herein described may be suited, for example and without being limitative, to determine a concentration level of nitrate in the soil. Nitrate (NOs-) is a form of inorganic nitrogen (N) present in the soil that may become problematic when its concentration level becomes too high or above a given threshold, because of its negative or undesirable environmental impacts. The techniques that will be described allow for quick, efficient, reliable, precise, in situ, and real-time or near real-time measurements of the ionic concentration of the soil. Of note, obtaining precise measurements of the ionic concentration of soil is typically considered challenging, as the concentration level of some ions, such as nitrates, may be relatively low. For example, and without being limitative, the concentration of nitrates may be about 10 parts per million (ppm) to about 50 part per millions in a sample, which means that the desired minimum detectable variation in concentration should lie in the range extending from about 5 ppm to about 10 ppm. The concentration of nitrates may sometimes be as low as about 0 ppm or 1 ppm. The present techniques allow achieving such precise results. In some implementations, the techniques are automated, meaning that they are implemented in or used with a broad class of industrial or agricultural vehicles, such as all-terrain vehicles (ATV), utility task vehicles (AVT), tractors, autonomous agricultural vehicles (AAV), or any other farming equipment. In some implementations, the techniques are used to measure the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil as an agricultural vehicle drives over a field, and the measured ionic concentration can be used to instruct, guide, adapt and / or adjust an agricultural event or intervention (e.g., spraying fertilizer) being achieved by the agricultural vehicle in real time or near real time. The present disclosure also relates to techniques, including methods and systems, for conditioning a sample extracted from a soil. The techniques herein described may be suited, for example and without being limitative, to prepare, alter, adapt, treat and / or modify a sample prior to an agricultural event, an experiment or a measurement. In some implementations, the conditioned sample can be sent to an external laboratory. In these implementations, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound is measured elsewhere than on the field, after having been conditioned on the field. With reference to Figures 1 to 41, various aspects, features, and implementations of a method and a system for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil are illustrated. The claim features are illustrated in the Figures according to the mapping presented in the following table: Claim Feature Reference Number Method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil 100 Extracting a sample from the soil 102 Once the sample is at least partially dried, filtering the sample to obtain a filtered sample 104 Mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution 106 Filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil 108 Determining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil 110 Method for conditioning a sample extracted from a soil 112 Once the sample has at least partially been dried, filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample 114 Mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution 116 Filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil 118 Method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil 120 Extracting a sample from the soil 122 Filtering the sample to obtain a filtered sample 124 Mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution 126 Filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil 128 Determining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil 130 Method for conditioning a sample extracted from a soil, the soil containing an ionic compound 132 Filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample 134 Mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution 136 Filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil 138 Method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a sample extracted from a soil 140 Filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample 142 Mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution 144 Filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil 146 Determining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil 148 System for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil 150 A mixing and extraction module 152 Inlet 154 Fluid source 156 Filter 158 Outer periphery 160 Holes 162 Chamber 164 Flow control module 166 Analysis module 168 Mounting plate 170 Stabilizing mechanism 172 Bottom surface of the chamber 174 T ransparent window 176 Load cell 178 The method includes a step of extracting a sample from the soil. Of note, this step can be achieved right before the other steps, or well before the other steps. It should be noted that the extraction step can be performed by the farmer or can 5 alternatively be automatized (i.e., semi-automatic or fully automatic), the person responsible of the measurements or characterization of the soil, or any other third parties. The sample extracted from the soil is a mix of a solid content and a liquid content, and typically includes organic matter, minerals, water and air. The sample extracted from the soil is representative of the region of the soil from which it has 10 been extracted. The relative proportions of each component of the soil can vary or evolve over time but can also be dependent on the location of the sample and other factors, such as environmental factors, weather, previous agricultural events having been performed on the field, and any other human or non-human interventions. As such, the properties of the soil - and so the properties of the 15 sample - are “dynamic properties” which may evolve over time. A collection of several samples is hence typically required to adequately determine or measure the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil or the field of interest. Spatial variations of the ionic concentration of some ionic compounds, such as nitrates, may be assessed before the extraction step. Such an assessment may be referred to as a “mapping”, which can be performed only once, or alternatively periodically updated. In some embodiments, the sample is extracted using equipment such as, for example and without being limitative, an auger, a shovel, a drill, an automatic sampler (e.g., Wintex sampler), or any combinations thereof. The method also includes a step of filtering the sample to obtain a filtered sample, once the sample is at least partially dried. The expression “partially dried” herein refers to a ratio between a liquid content and a solid content found in the sample, the ratio being representative of a remaining content or traces of the liquid content with respect to the solid content of the sample after the drying process. The partially dried sample can have a remaining liquid content, which can be, in some embodiments, smaller that the liquid content that was originally found in the sample. In some embodiments, the sample is air dried, meaning that the sample is exposed to air (e.g., ambient air) after its extraction, without any other or only minimal interventions. Of note, the sample may be exposed to another gas, depending on the soil conditions or the ionic concentration of the ionic compound to be measured. In some embodiments, the sample is dried using a device or a system configured to dry a sample, which can be achieved by circulating a gas near or in the sample and / or thermally treating the sample (e.g., increasing its temperature). Nonlimitative examples of such devices or systems include an oven, flames, a solenoid, a dehumidifier, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a sieve, a mesh and / or a strainer can be used to filter the sample. In some embodiments, a vibrating plate can be used to filter the sample or at least assist or support the filtering of the sample. In some embodiments, filtering the sample includes removing at least a portion of the macroscopic components contained in the sample. In these embodiments, the filtering step may be referred to as a “macroscopic filtering” or “macro-filtering”. The method also includes a step of mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution. The sample solution contains the ionic compound that was previously present in the soil. In some embodiments, the liquid is water. In some embodiments, the liquid is an aqueous solution. In some embodiments, the liquid may be any other solutions which allow obtaining a sample solution containing the ionic compound for which an ionic concentration measurement is desired. In some embodiments, mixing the filtered sample with the liquid is carried out using a spray gun, which may be embodied, for example and without being limitative, by a high-pressure spray gun. In some embodiments, the high-pressure spray gun can be operated at a pressure of about 1000 pounds per square inch (PSI) to about 4000 PSI during the mixing step. In some embodiments, a blender, a mixer, a laboratory shaker, a vortex shaker and / or a paint mixer can be used to mix the filtered sample with the liquid. It should be noted that the step of mixing the filtered sample allows adding energy to the extracted sample, which allows separating the nitrates from the other components of the samples. In addition to the pressure used during the mixing step, other parameters can be controlled or adjusted, such as, for example, and without being limitative, the mixing time. In some embodiments, the mixing time lies in a range extending from about 3 seconds to about 300 seconds, which is considerably shorter than the amount of time typically required in a laboratory. Indeed, conventional laboratories typically mix the sample for a period of about 3600 seconds. Once the sample solution has been obtained, the method includes a step of filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution. The filtered sample solution contains the ionic compound previously present in the soil. As it will have been readily understood, filtering the sample solution to obtain the filtered sample solution separates the solid content from the liquid content of the sample solution. In some embodiments, filtering the sample solution can be carried out using a fine filter. In some embodiments, the fine filter has pores of about 2 microns. The dimensions of the pores can refer to a diameter of the pores if the pores are circular. Otherwise, the dimensions of the pores can refer to any dimensions of any given shapes. In some embodiments, the fine filter is embodied by a paper filter, a polymer filter, a metal filter, a ceramic filter, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, filtering the sample is carried out using at least one of: a screw press, a piston, an aeropress, a vacuum, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the method also includes a step of micro-filtering the filtered sample solution to obtain a micro-filtered sample solution, which may be sometimes referred to as a step of “microscopic filtering”. This step can be carried out using a ceramic having pores of about 2 microns, or any other relevant equipment or techniques. Once the filtered sample solution is obtained, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution is determined. The ionic concentration of the ionic compound presented in the filtered sample solution is representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil. Different techniques may be used to determine the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the sample solution. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the sample solution is determined using Raman spectroscopy. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution is determined using absorbance spectroscopy. In some embodiments, the absorbance spectroscopy includes determining a spectral response of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution in a range extending from about 200 nm to about 300 nm. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the sample solution is determined using an ion selective electrode. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the sample solution is determined using a chromotropic acid solution. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the sample solution is determined using a colorimetric method. In some embodiments, the colorimetric method is a cadmium reduction method. In some embodiments determining the ionic concentration of the sample solution includes determining a concentration level of nitrate present in the sample solution. Of note, the ionic concentration of other ionic compounds could also be measured. For example, and without being limitative, determining the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution may include determining a concentration level of at least one target compound present in the filtered sample solution. The target compound(s) present in the filtered sample solution may be, for example and without being limitative, minerals, organic molecules, nitrites, nitrates, phosphates, carbonates, ammonium, ammonia, sulfates, urea, organic matter, organic carbon, humic acid, fluvic acid, agronomically relevant inorganic compounds, arsenates, silicates, metal oxides, monoatomic ions, calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron, manganese, copper, boron, zinc, aluminum, chloride, persistent organic pollutant (POP) residues, derivatives of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, and ingredients or components present in pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. It will have been readily understood that these examples serve an illustrative purpose only. In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for conditioning a sample extracted from a soil, the soil containing an ionic compound. The method includes, once the sample has at least partially been dried, filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; and filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil. In some embodiments, the step of filtering the sample is carried out using at a sieve, a mesh, a strainer, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the step of filtering the sample is carried out using a vibrating plate. In some embodiments, the step of filtering the sample includes removing at least a portion of the macroscopic components contained in the sample. In some embodiments, the liquid is water. In some embodiments, the liquid is an aqueous solution. In some embodiments, the step of mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a spray gun. In some embodiments, the spray gun is a high-pressure spray gun. In some embodiments, the high-pressure spray gun is operated at a pressure of about 1000 PSI to about 4000 PSI during the step of mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution. In some embodiments, mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a blender or a mixer. In some embodiments, mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a laboratory shaker or a vortex shaker. In some embodiments, mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a paint mixer. In some embodiments, filtering the sample solution to obtain the filtered sample solution is carried out using a fine filter, the fine filter having pores of about 2 microns. In some embodiments, the fine filter is a paper filter, a polymer filter, a metal filter, a ceramic filter, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, filtering the sample is carried out using at least one of: a screw press, a piston, an aeropress, vacuum, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the method further includes micro-filtering the filtered sample solution to obtain a micro-filtered sample solution. In some embodiments, micro-filtering filtering the sample solution is carried out using a ceramic having pores of about 2 microns. In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil. The method includes extracting a sample from the soil; filtering the sample to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil; and determining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil. In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for conditioning a sample extracted from a soil, the soil containing an ionic compound. The method includes filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; and filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil. In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a sample extracted from a soil. The method includes filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil; and determining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil. The techniques having been insofar described can be useful to measure and / or monitor the soil condition in situ, i.e., without the need to send the sample to an external laboratory, thereby providing a dynamic characterization of the soil. In some embodiments, the techniques involve performing measurements at several locations of the field being characterized, at the same time or sequentially, thereby allowing to obtain a global and dynamic representation (i.e., a “cartography”) of the field. In some embodiments, the dynamic characterization of the soil may be used to plan the maintenance of the field, plan the fertilization of the field, evaluate, and potentially prevent the risk of diseases for the tree(s), plant(s) and / or crop(s) growing in the field, and the like. The system includes a mixing and extraction module, the mixing and extraction module including an inlet connectable to a fluid source, the inlet being configured to circulate a fluid from the fluid source inside the mixing and extraction module; a filter having an outer periphery, the outer periphery including a plurality of holes therein, the filter being configured to receive a soil sample therein, and, upon circulation of the fluid, produce a filtered sample solution through the plurality of holes; and a chamber surrounding the filter, the chamber being configured to receive the filtered sample solution from the filter; a flow control module to control a circulation of the fluid within the mixing and extraction module; and an analysis module configured to characterize at least one property of the filtered sample solution and determine an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil. In some embodiments, the filter is a cylinder. In some embodiments, the system further includes a mounting plate supporting the mixing and extraction module, the flow control module and the analysis module. In some embodiments, the system further includes a stabilizing mechanism disposed beneath the mounting plate. In some embodiments, the analysis module includes at least one of: an optical detector, a chemical detector, an electrical detector, an electrochemical detector, a capacitive detector, a heat detector, a thermometer, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the system further includes a data transmission unit configured to wirelessly transmit data produced by the analysis module. In some embodiments, the system further includes a geolocation unit. In some embodiments, the fluid source is a tank. In some embodiments, the fluid is water. The water may be pressurized or not, depending on the targeted application. In some embodiments, the chamber has a bottom surface, the chamber further including a transparent window positioned at the bottom surface of the chamber. In some embodiments, the system further includes an optical emitter and an optical detector positioned under the transparent window. In some embodiments, the optical emitter and the optical detector define an optical axis substantially parallel to the bottom surface of the chamber. In some embodiments, the optical emitter and the optical detector are positioned at an angle of about 90° one with respect to the other. In some embodiments, the optical emitter and the optical detector defining an optical axis substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface of the chamber. In some embodiments, the system further includes a load cell configured to measure a weight of the soil sample prior and after the fluid has circulated within the mixing and extraction module. In some embodiments, the flow control module includes a measurement channel, wherein the measurement channel is configured to circulate the filtered sample solution through the analysis module. In some embodiments, the flow control module is configured to circulate a cleaning fluid through the filter to clean the same. In some embodiments, the flow control module is configured to circulate the cleaning fluid to clean the water source. Figures 24 to 28 illustrate a measurement sequence and a cleaning sequence, in accordance with one embodiment of the flow control module. Figures 29 to 32 illustrate a measurement sequence and a cleaning sequence, in accordance with one embodiment of the flow control module. Figures 33 to 35 illustrate a measurement sequence and a cleaning sequence, in accordance with one embodiment of the flow control module. Figure 36 shows another embodiment of the flow control module. In some embodiments, the system may be compatible with a method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil, i.e., the system can be used to implement such a method, which will now be described. The method includes extracting a sample from the soil. Of note, this step can be achieved right before the other steps, or well before the other steps. It should be noted that the extraction step can be performed by the farmer or can alternatively be automatized (i.e., semi-automatic or fully automatic), the person responsible of the measurements or characterization of the soil, or any other third party. The sample extracted from the soil is a mix of a solid content and a liquid content, and typically includes organic matter, minerals, water and air. The sample extracted from the soil is representative of the region of the soil from which it has been extracted. The relative proportions of each component of the soil can vary or evolve over time but can also be dependent on the location of the sample and other factors, such as environmental factors, weather, previous agricultural events having been performed on the field, and any other human or non-human interventions. As such, the properties of the soil - and so the sample - are “dynamic properties” which may evolve over time. A collection of several samples is hence typically required to adequately determine or measure the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil or the field of interest. Spatial variations of the ionic concentration of some ionic compounds, such as nitrates, may be assess before the extraction step. Such an assessment may be referred to as a “mapping”, which can be performed only once, or alternatively periodically updated. In some embodiments, the sample is extracted using equipment such as, for example and without being limitative, an auger, a shovel, a drill, an automatic sampler (e.g., Wintex sampler), or any combinations thereof. The method also includes filtering the sample to obtain a filtered sample, once the sample is at least partially dried. The expression “partially dried” herein refers to a ratio between a liquid content and a solid content found in the sample, the ratio being representative of a remaining content or traces of the liquid content with respect to the solid content of the sample after the drying process. The partially dried sample can have a remaining liquid content, which can be, in some embodiments, smaller that the liquid content that was originally found in the sample. In some embodiments, the sample is air dried, meaning that the sample is exposed to air (e.g., ambient air) after its extraction, without any other or only minimal interventions. Of note, the sample may be exposed to another gas, depending on the soil conditions or the ionic concentration of the ionic compound to be measured. In some embodiments, the sample is dried using a device or system configured to dry a sample, which can be achieved by circulating a gas near or in the sample and / or thermally treating the sample (e.g., increasing its temperature). Nonlimitative examples of such devices or systems include an oven, flames, a solenoid, a dehumidifier, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a sieve, a mesh and / or a strainer can be used to filter the sample. In some embodiments, a vibrating plate can be used to filter the sample. In some embodiments, filtering the sample includes removing at least a portion of the macroscopic components contained in the sample. In these embodiments, the filtering step may be referred to as a “macroscopic filtering” or “macro-filtering”. The method also includes mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution. The sample solution contains the ionic compound that was previously present in the soil. In some embodiments, the liquid is water. In some embodiments, the liquid is an aqueous solution. In some embodiments, the liquid may be any other solutions which allows obtaining a sample solution containing the ionic compound for which an ionic concentration measurement is desired. In some embodiments, mixing the filtered sample with the liquid is carried out using a spray gun, which may be embodied, for example and without being limitative, by a high-pressure spray gun. In some embodiments, the high-pressure spray gun can be operated at a pressure of about 1000 pounds per square inch (PSI) to about 4000 PSI during the mixing step. In some embodiments, a blender, a mixer, a laboratory shaker, a vortex shaker and / or a paint mixer can be used to mix the filtered sample with the liquid. It should be noted that the step of mixing the filtered sample allows adding energy to the extracted sample, which allows separating the nitrates from the other components of the samples. In addition to the pressure used during the mixing step, other parameters can be controlled or adjusted, such as, for example, and without being limitative, the mixing time. In some embodiments, the mixing time lies in a range extending from about 3 seconds to about 300 seconds, which is considerably shorter than the amount of time typically required in a laboratory. Indeed, conventional laboratories typically mix the sample for a period of about 3600 seconds. Once the sample solution has been obtained, the method includes a step of filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution. The filtered sample solution contains the ionic compound previously present in the soil. As it will have been readily understood, filtering the sample solution to obtain the filtered sample solution separates the solid content from the liquid content of the sample solution. In some embodiments, filtering the sample solution can be carried out using a fine filter. In some embodiments, the fine filter has pores of about 2 microns. The dimensions of the pores can refer to a diameter of the pores if the pores are circular. Otherwise, the dimensions of the pores can refer to any dimensions of any given shapes. In some embodiments, the fine filter is embodied by a paper filter, a polymer filter, a metal filter, a ceramic filter, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, filtering the sample is carried out using at least one of: a screw press, a piston, an aeropress, a vacuum, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the method also includes a step of micro-filtering the filtered sample solution to obtain a micro-filtered sample solution, which may be sometimes referred to as a “microscopic filtering”. This step can be carried out using a ceramic having pores of about 2 microns, or any other relevant equipment or techniques. The method includes determining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution. The ionic concentration of the ionic compound presented in the filtered sample solution is representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil. Different techniques may be used to determine the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the sample solution. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the sample solution is determined using Raman spectroscopy. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution is determined using absorbance spectroscopy. In some embodiments, the absorbance spectroscopy includes determining a spectral response of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution in a range extending from about 200 nm to about 300 nm. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the sample solution is determined using an ion selective electrode. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the sample solution is determined using a chromotropic acid solution. In some embodiments, the ionic concentration of the sample solution is determined using a colorimetric method. In some embodiments, the colorimetric method is a cadmium reduction method. In some embodiments determining the ionic concentration of the sample solution includes determining a concentration level of nitrate present in the sample solution. Of note, the ionic concentration of other ionic compounds could also be measured. For example, and without being limitative, determining the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution may include determining a concentration level of at least one target compound present in the filtered sample solution. The target compound(s) present in the filtered sample solution may be, for example and without being limitative, minerals, organic molecules, nitrites, nitrates, phosphates, carbonates, ammonium, ammonia, sulfates, urea, organic matter, organic carbon, humic acid, fluvic acid, agronomically relevant inorganic compounds, arsenates, silicates, metal oxides, monoatomic ions, calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron, manganese, copper, boron, zinc, aluminum, chloride, persistent organic pollutant (POP) residues, derivatives of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, and ingredients or components present in pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. It will have been readily understood that these examples serve an illustrative purpose only. In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for conditioning a sample extracted from a soil, the soil containing an ionic compound. The method includes, once the sample has at least partially been dried, filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; and filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil. In some embodiments, filtering the sample is carried out using at a sieve, a mesh, a strainer, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, filtering the sample is carried out using a vibrating plate. In some embodiments, filtering the sample includes removing at least a portion of the macroscopic components contained in the sample. In some embodiments, the liquid is water. In some embodiments, the liquid is an aqueous solution. In some embodiments, mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a spray gun. In some embodiments, the spray gun is a high-pressure spray gun. In some embodiments, the high-pressure spray gun is operated at a pressure of about 1000 pounds per square inch (PSI) to about 4000 PSI during the step of mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution. In some embodiments, mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a blender or a mixer. In some embodiments, mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a laboratory shaker or a vortex shaker. In some embodiments, mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a paint mixer. In some embodiments, filtering the sample solution to obtain the filtered sample solution is carried out using a fine filter, the fine filter having pores of about 2 microns. In some embodiments, the fine filter is a paper filter, a polymer filter, a metal filter, a ceramic filter, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, filtering the sample is carried out using at least one of: a screw press, a piston, an aeropress, vacuum, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the method further includes micro-filtering the filtered sample solution to obtain a micro-filtered sample solution. In some embodiments, micro-filtering filtering the sample solution is carried out using a ceramic having pores of about 2 microns. In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil. The method includes extracting a sample from the soil; filtering the sample to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil; and determining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil. In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for conditioning a sample extracted from a soil, the soil containing an ionic compound. The method includes filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; and filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil. In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a sample extracted from a soil. The method includes filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample; mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil; and determining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil. The techniques having been insofar described can be useful to measure and / or monitor the soil condition in situ, i.e., without the need to send the sample to an external lab, thereby providing a dynamic characterization of the soil. In some embodiments, the techniques involve performing measurements at several locations of the field being characterized, thereby allowing to obtain a global and dynamic representation (i.e., a “cartography”) of the field. In some embodiments, the dynamic characterization of the soil may be used to plan the maintenance of the field, plan the fertilization of the field, evaluate, and potentially prevent the risk of diseases for the tree(s), plant(s) and / or crop(s) growing in the field, and the like. Experimental section Now that different embodiments of the technology have been described, some experimental data will be presented. Figures 3 to 6 show the efficiency of the nitrate extraction process, in different textures representative of soils in general, and for a wide range of nitrate concentrations. Figures 7 to 10 show the efficiency of the Raman measurement in solution. More specifically, Figures 6 to 8 show raw measurements, whereas Figures 9 and 10 show measurements having been processed. Figures 11 and 13 show performance using the alternative measurement methods mentioned in the present disclosure. Figure 14 shows the sensitivity to other than NOs using Ramanbased techniques. Several alternative embodiments and examples have been described and illustrated herein. The embodiments described above are intended to be exemplary only. A person skilled in the art would appreciate the features of the individual embodiments, and the possible combinations and variations of the 5 components. A person skilled in the art would further appreciate that any of the embodiments could be provided in any combination with the other embodiments disclosed herein. The present examples and embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, while specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, numerous 10 modifications come to mind without significantly departing from the scope defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil, the method comprising:extracting a sample from the soil;5 once the sample is at least partially dried, filtering the sample to obtain a filtered sample;mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution;filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the 10            soil; anddetermining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil.15   2. The method of claim 1, wherein the sample is air dried.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the sample is dried with at least one of: an oven, flames, a solenoid, a dehumidifier, or any combinations thereof.

4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said filtering the sample to obtain the filtered sample is carried out using at least one of: a sieve, a mesh, a 20 strainer, or any combinations thereof.

5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said filtering the sample to obtain the filtered sample is carried out using a vibrating plate.

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said filtering the sample to obtain the filtered sample comprises removing at least a portion of the macroscopic 25 components contained in the sample.

7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the liquid is water.

8. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the liquid is an aqueous solution.

9. The method of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a spray gun.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the spray gun is a high-pressure spray gun.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the high-pressure spray gun is operated at a pressure of about 1000 pounds per square inch (PSI) to about 4000 PSI during said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution.

12. The method of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a blender or a mixer.

13. The method of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a laboratory shaker or a vortex shaker.

14. The method of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a paint mixer.

15. The method of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein said filtering the sample solution to obtain the filtered sample solution is carried out using a fine filter, the fine filter having pores of about 2 microns.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the fine filter is a paper filter, a polymer filter, a metal filter, a ceramic filter, or any combinations thereof.

17. The method of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein said filtering the sample solution to obtain the filtered sample solution is carried out using a screw press, a piston, an aeropress, vacuum, or any combinations thereof.

18. The method of any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising micro-filtering the filtered sample solution to obtain a micro-filtered sample solution.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein said micro-filtering the filtered sample solution is carried out using a ceramic having pores of about 2 microns.

20. The method of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution is determined using Raman spectroscopy.

21. The method of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution is determined using absorbance spectroscopy.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the absorbance spectroscopy comprises determining a spectral response of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution in a range extending from about 200 nm to about 300 nm.

23. The method of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution is determined using an ion selective electrode.

24. The method of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution is determined using a chromotropic acid solution.

25. The method of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution is determined using a colorimetric method.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein the colorimetric method is a cadmium reduction method.

27. The method of any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein said determining the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution comprises determining a concentration level of nitrate present in the sample solution.

28. The method of any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein said determining the ionic concentration of the filtered sample solution comprises determining a concentration level of at least one target compound present in the filtered sample solution, said at least one target compound present in the filtered sample solution being selected from: minerals, organic molecules, nitrites, nitrates, phosphates, carbonates, ammonium, ammonia, sulfates, urea, organic matter, organic carbon, humic acid, fluvic acid, agronomically relevant inorganic compounds, arsenates, silicates, metal oxides, monoatomic ions, calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron, manganese, copper, boron, zinc, aluminum, chloride, persistent organic pollutant (POP) residues, derivatives of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons,polychlorinated biphenyls, and ingredients or components present in pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides.

29. A method for conditioning a sample extracted from a soil, the soil containing an ionic compound, the method comprising:once the sample has at least partially been dried, filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample;mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; andfiltering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein said filtering the sample is carried out using at a sieve, a mesh, a strainer, or any combinations thereof.

31. The method of claim 29 or 30, wherein said filtering the sample is carried out using a vibrating plate.

32. The method of any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein said filtering the sample comprises removing at least a portion of the macroscopic components contained in the sample.

33. The method of any one of claims 29 to 32, wherein the liquid is water.

34. The method of any one of claims 29 to 32, wherein the liquid is an aqueous solution.

35. The method of any one of claims 29 to 34, wherein said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a spray gun.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the spray gun is a high-pressure spray gun.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein the high-pressure spray gun is operated at a pressure of about 1000 pounds per square inch (PSI) to about 4000 PSI during said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution.

38. The method of any one of claims 29 to 34, wherein said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a blender or a mixer.

39. The method of any one of claims 29 to 34, wherein said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a laboratory shaker or a vortex shaker.

40. The method of any one of claims 29 to 34, wherein said mixing the filtered sample with the liquid to obtain the sample solution is carried out using a paint mixer.

41. The method of any one of claims 29 to 40, wherein said filtering the sample solution to obtain the filtered sample solution is carried out using a fine filter, the fine filter having pores of about 2 microns.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the fine filter is a paper filter, a polymer filter, a metal filter, a ceramic filter, or any combinations thereof.

43. The method of any one of claims 29 to 40, wherein said filtering the sample is carried out using at least one of: a screw press, a piston, an aeropress, vacuum, or any combinations thereof.

44. The method of any one of claims 29 to 43, further comprising micro-filtering the filtered sample solution to obtain a micro-filtered sample solution.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein said filtering the sample solution is carried out using a ceramic having pores of about 2 microns.

46. A method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil, the method comprising:extracting a sample from the soil;filtering the sample to obtain a filtered sample;mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution;filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil; and5 determining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil.

47. A method for conditioning a sample extracted from a soil, the soil containing 10 an ionic compound, the method comprising:filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample;mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution; andfiltering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the 15               soil.

48. A method for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a sample extracted from a soil, the method comprising:filtering the sample extracted from the soil to obtain a filtered sample;mixing the filtered sample with a liquid to obtain a sample solution;20 filtering the sample solution to obtain a filtered sample solution, the filtered sample solution containing the ionic compound previously present in the soil; anddetermining an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound25           present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionicconcentration of the ionic compound present in the soil.

49. A system for measuring an ionic concentration of an ionic compound present in a soil, the system comprising:a mixing and extraction module, the mixing and extraction module comprising:an inlet connectable to a fluid source, the inlet being configured to circulate a fluid from the fluid source inside the mixing and extraction module;a filter having an outer periphery, the outer periphery comprising a plurality of holes therein, the filter being configured to receive a soil sample therein, and, upon circulation of the fluid, produce a filtered sample solution through the plurality of holes; anda chamber surrounding the filter, the chamber being configured to receive the filtered sample solution from the filter;a flow control module to control a circulation of the fluid within the mixing and extraction module; andan analysis module configured to characterize at least one property of the filtered sample solution and determine an ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution, the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the filtered sample solution being representative of the ionic concentration of the ionic compound present in the soil.

50. The system of claim 49, wherein the filter is cylindrical.

51. The system of claim 49 or 50, further comprising a mounting plate supporting the mixing and extraction module, the flow control module and the analysis module.

52. The system of claim 51, further comprising a stabilizing mechanism positioned beneath the mounting plate.

53. The system of any one of claims 49 to 52, wherein the analysis module comprises at least one of: an optical detector, a pressure detector, a chemical detector, an electrical detector, an electrochemical detector, a capacitive detector, a heat detector, a thermometer, or any combinations thereof.

54. The system of any one of claims 49 to 53, further comprising a data transmission unit configured to wirelessly transmit data produced by the analysis module.

55. The system of any one of claims 49 to 54, further comprising a geolocation unit.

56. The system of any one of claims 49 to 55, wherein the fluid source is a tank.

57. The system of any one of claims 49 to 56, wherein the fluid is water.

58. The system of any one of claims 49 to 57, wherein the chamber has a bottom surface, the chamber further comprising a transparent window positioned at the bottom surface of the chamber.

59. The system of claim 58, further comprising an optical emitter and an optical detector positioned under the transparent window.

60. The system of claim 59, wherein the optical emitter and the optical detector define an optical axis substantially parallel to the bottom surface of the chamber.

61. The system of claim 59, wherein the optical emitter and the optical detector are positioned at an angle of about 90° one with respect to the other.

62. The system of claim 59, wherein the optical emitter and the optical detector defining an optical axis substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface of the chamber.

63. The system of any one of claims 49 to 62, further comprising a load cell configured to measure a weight of the soil sample prior and after the fluid has circulated within the mixing and extraction unit.

64. The system of any one of claims 49 to 63, wherein the flow control module 5 comprises a measurement channel, wherein the measurement channel is configured to circulate the filtered sample solution through the analysis module.

65. The system of claim 64, wherein the flow control module is configured to circulate a cleaning fluid through the filter to clean the same.

66. The system of claim 64 or 65, wherein the flow control module is configured to 10 circulate the cleaning fluid to clean the water source.

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