Scientists at North Carolina State University have taken a significant step forward in combating diseases and stresses affecting crops. They developed an electronic patch capable of monitoring pathogens, such as viral and fungal infections, and stresses such as drought or salinity, even before producers identify visible symptoms.
The researchers, led by assistant professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering Qingshan Wei, ensure that early detection of diseases and stresses will allow farmers to act more efficiently to limit the spread and preserve their crops, as well as face challenges and improve productivity. .
The innovation, presented in the scientific article published in the journal Science Advances, consists of small stickers, just 30 millimeters long, made of flexible material with sensors and electrodes based on silver nanowires. They are applied to the underside of plant leaves, where there is a greater density of stomata, pores responsible for the exchange of gases between the plant and the environment.
The technology evolved from a prototype that monitored plant diseases by detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by them. The researchers noted that different combinations of VOCs are emitted depending on the circumstances, and by targeting VOCs relevant to specific diseases or stresses, sensors can alert growers to specific problems.
The tests were carried out on tomato plants in greenhouses and exposed to different pathogens and abiotic stresses, such as excess water, drought conditions, lack of light and high salt concentrations in water. The results showed that the patches were able to detect a viral infection in tomatoes more than a week before visible symptoms.
To make the technology available to producers, researchers need to overcome two challenges: making the stickers wireless and testing them in the field, outside greenhouses, ensuring their effectiveness in real growing conditions. If successful, these electronic stickers could revolutionize the monitoring and management of disease and stress in crops, bringing significant benefits to global agriculture.
The article written by the researchers can be read here.
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The work, carried out in partnership by the two institutions, seeks to identify coffee varieties that are most suitable for different climate, soil and relief conditions.
