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A Compact Monitor for Ethylene and Other Plant-Produced Volatile Organic Compounds for NASA Space Missions.

Authors :
Dobrokhotov, Vladimir
Larin, Alexander
Viugina, Elena
Emberton, Adam
Livchak, Andrey
Cremer Jr., Jay T.
Gary, Charles K.
Source :
Sensors (14248220). Dec2023, Vol. 23 Issue 24, p9713. 16p.
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

In this work, we discuss the development of a compact analytical instrument for monitoring ethylene in compact greenhouses utilized by NASA to grow fresh vegetables in space. Traditionally, ethylene measurements are conducted by GC-MS systems. However, in space, they are not applicable due to their bulky size, heavy weight, special carrier gas requirement and high maintenance. Our group developed a compact and robust battery-powered ethylene monitor based on the principles of analytical gas chromatography. The device utilizes purified ambient air as a carrier gas and a metal oxide sensor as a GC detector. Implementation of a CarboWax 20 M packed column from Restek together with a Tenax TA pre-concentrator allowed us to achieve a 20 ppb limit of detection for ethylene. Full automation of measurements and reporting of concentrations was accomplished via the implementation of a Raspberry Pi 4 computer and a 7″ 720P LED capacitive touchscreen utilized for data output. Based on a feasibility study, a fully automated, industrial-grade ethylene monitoring and removal system for greenhouses was developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
14248220
Volume :
23
Issue :
24
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Sensors (14248220)
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
174463264
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/s23249713