SBIR-STTR Award

SensIT Ventures Inc. (SensIT) is commercializing a novel chemical sensor platform that combines low-cost and high-performance features required for precision agriculture and post-harvest applications. The miniature chemical sensor platform is a fundamentally new type of ion mobility spectrometer that runs on low power DC voltage such as a common 9V battery. In this Phase I proof-of-concept proposal we will custom build and calibrate gas phase sensors to provide an early warning of potato rot in the post-harvest supply chain as a first commercial example of the device utility and value. In prior published work unique volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been identified to be emitted from tubers infected with three major potato pathogens: Phytophthorainfestans (late blight) Fusarium coeruleum (dry rot) and Pectobacterium carotovorum (soft rot). To demonstrate technical feasibility we will measure the detection thresholds levels necessary to identify each VOC from within this panel of candidate biomarkers. Based on the results of the Phase I study SensIT will design a prototype device to detect disease under field conditions using a test series of selected VOCs. In Phase II we will build and deploy the devices in collaboration with commercial partners and according to their specifications to optimize the delivery of perishable product with recision management. Post-harvest diseases cause major economic losses in the potato supply chain. There is strong commercial interest in monitoring for disease especially during tuber storage as evidenced by premium contracts that growers are paid for later delivery dates in the processed market.

Thisproposalcontainsproprietaryandconfidentialinformationprovidedforthesolepurposeofagencyevaluationoftechnicalconceptsandshouldnotbedisclosedtoanypersonoutsideofthegovernment.7. It is widely appreciated that a variety of new technologies will be required to feed anestimated population of 10 billion people by 2050 with environmentally sustainable production.It is also estimated that about one third (in weight) of the world's food is lost or wasted annually.The simplest solutions are to make better use of existing food production. We believe that accessto better information will improve agricultural practices post-harvest and play an essential role inmaintaining the productive capacity of the planet. Better information begins with better sensors.SensIT Ventures Inc. (SensIT) is commercializing a novel chemical sensor platform thatcombines low-cost and high performance features required for precision agriculture and post-