Smart tags based on radiofrequency antennas and sensors with advanced materials: application in microorganisms monitoring during grain storage

• Grant number: 23/10528-4
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: March 01, 2024
• End date: November 30, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Interdisciplinary Subjects
• Agreement: SEBRAE-SP
• Principal Investigator: Rafaela da Silveira Andre
• Grantee: Rafaela da Silveira Andre
• Company: Thotech Soluções & Serviços Ltda
• CNAE: Consultoria em tecnologia da informação ; Suporte técnico, manutenção e outros serviços em tecnologia da informação ; Pesquisa e desenvolvimento experimental em ciências físicas e naturais
• Associated researchers: Daniel Souza Corrêa ; João Paulo Braga ; João Victor Mendes ; Lucas Fugikawa Santos
• Associated scholarship(s): 24/01513-6 - Smart tags based on radiofrequency antennas and sensors with advanced materials: application in microorganisms monitoring during grain storage, BP.PIPE

Abstract

Brazil is the largest global soy producer, with a production of approximately 154 billions of tons per year, according to a survey by CONAB in June 2023. In addition, 60% of national production is destined for exportation, moving more than 46 billions of dollars in the last harvest. One of the main problems associated with soybean production and distribution is the damage caused by post-harvest losses due to fungal diseases. These diseases reduce the productivity by up to 20%, resulting in negative economic impacts for producers. In this context, fast and effective methods of monitoring fungi that can be used directly in bags and grain silos are seen as a valuable tool for decision-making, reducing the damage associated with this problem. Therefore, we propose as a technological solution the design of intelligent tags that act as wireless sensors for detecting disease-causing fungi in grains such as soybeans. These tags use radiofrequency antennas in combination with advanced materials, allowing the selective detection of fungi and the telemetry of the data collected directly from the bags and silos to the database. In addition to the sensor tags, the product to be idealized will feature a smartphone application for wireless communication and a database platform, both of which will be available as complementary products to provide a more complete experience for users. The proposal for a wireless sensor integrates advanced technologies in an innovative way and represents the future of intelligent packaging connected to the internet of things, applicable to a vast potential market. With this approach, THOTech seeks to offer an innovative solution through the direct communication of smart tags with smartphones and remote analysis in real time of the data, allowing immediate and accurate decision-making when signs of problems are detected. This prompt action contributes to maintaining the quality of the grains and maximizing the harvest. Validation of the proof of concept and initial prototyping with low-cost parts produced by 3D printing will be made possible through cooperation with the Department of Physics of the Institute of Geosciences and Exact Sciences (IGCE) and the Center for Environmental Studies (CEA), both from Unesp - campus Rio Claro/SP. (AU)