This project focuses on a low cost system that has been developed for close proximity multispectral analysis through the appropriate application of narrowband semiconductor sources (LEDs) and broadband modified imaging detectors. The system has been exemplified against abiotic (e.g. droughting, nutrient deficiency, light spectral variations, etc.) and biotic (e.g. fungal or viral disease symptoms) plant stresses, with the initial market being intended for mass phenotyping, in field or lab, for next generation crop breeding. Follow-on markets are anticipated for direct in-field management of crop stresses, quality and yield.
It is envisaged that the early-adopters would be the plant breeding community in order to deliver a new level of information on phenotypes. Second generation products would most likely be sold as a service to commercial growers on a per-measurement payment scheme. Third generation products, at appropriate cost may be offered to consumers (e.g. home growers or produce nutritional assessment) or other sectors (e.g. point of care medicine), as the cost and speed of the design are developed.
Contact:
Professor Bruce Grieve
bruce.grieve@manchester.ac.uk