on preparation of substrate for mushroom compost we need the information of Moisture content(MC) of the raw materials. The common way to determine the MC is by using oven-method, but this way takes some hours while we need the info instantly. So I am thinking of using MCmeter but still wondering if it is accurate enough to measure MC of raw material such Paddy Straw.
You can measure the moisture content of paddy straw in a high precision moisture meter. The following links will help you in searching the appropriate instrument
http://www.panomex.com/moisture-meters/hay-moisture-meter.html
https://www.pce-instruments.com/english/measuring-instruments/test-meters/moisture-meter-kat_41793_1.htm
yes there are specific moisture meters for grains, i have also used that but at present its name is skipped from my mind
I have had the same problem and found out, that the most relevant measurement would be the water activity, because the moisture content is (mostly) not linear compared to the increase of available water in the substrate. I've found that good equipment to measure the water activity of "soft matter" are hygrometers and water activity meters. They are anyhow a bit expensive.
If you, or anyone, has an advice on how to measure the water activity with a "cheap" device, I would also kindly appreciate it!
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