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A new technology being developed by the Technical University of Munich (TUM) aims to revolutionize fertilizing in the future. By combining biosensor test strips with satellite-based remote sensing data, TUM is working to create a method for determining the nutritional condition of cereals and calculating the ideal amount of fertilizer needed.

The goal is to provide plants with sufficient nutrients while conserving resources. The new technology utilizes easily accessible biosensor test strips, similar to blood sugar testing for diabetics. Multiple plant stems are collected from different locations in the field, and a drop of sap is used to measure the nitrate content using a handheld diagnostic device. The results are available within minutes.

This data is then combined with satellite remote sensing data from the EU Copernicus program to calculate the exact amount of nitrogen fertilizer required for the field under examination. The researchers estimate that this could save up to 20 percent of fertilizer used in cereal cultivation.

Traditionally, fertilizing practices have been imprecise, with 50 percent of nitrogen fertilizer being unused by plants. Excess quantities of fertilizer can have negative effects on the environment. Current laboratory analysis to determine plant nutritional conditions is time-consuming and costly. The new technology aims to provide accurate fertilizer calculations quickly and digitally, eliminating the need for manual calculations.

The initial focus of the TUM’s research is on nitrogen supply for cereals, but the future goal is to expand to phosphate and potassium. The cost of the technology is estimated to be around 20 Euro per hectare for agricultural use.

Field tests with the new technology are set to begin this year, with collaboration from regional machinery rings and farmers in the area. The results of these tests will be used to further develop the technology over the next three years.

The TUM’s research project has received financial support from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Transition program, which aims to support innovative technologies for sustainable agriculture. Multiple university chairs are involved in the project’s development, with Professor Nicolas Plumeré leading the initiative at the TUM Straubing campus.

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