Fungicide uptake modeling via plant wax composition and crystallinity
Innovative method to model fungicide uptake through plant cuticles by analyzing the composition and crystallinity of epicuticular and intracuticular waxes. Targets wheat and blueberry for improved agricultural fungicide strategies.
Overview
This research introduces a novel approach to modeling fungicide uptake in plants by focusing on the composition and crystallinity of plant waxes. By analyzing both the epicuticular and intracuticular wax layers, this solution aims to elucidate the barriers to fungicide diffusion across plant cuticles. This knowledge can significantly enhance fungicide application strategies, particularly in agricultural plants like wheat and blueberry, known for their waxy surfaces that impede chemical absorption.
Technical specifications
- Selective Sampling: Advanced methods for selective sampling of plant waxes have been developed to differentiate between the epicuticular and intracuticular layers.
- Target Species: Initial focus on wheat and blueberry, chosen for their known wax compositions but previously unanalyzed intracuticular wax.
- Analysis Techniques: Utilizing Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry to determine wax composition and crystallinity.
- Phase Behavior and Crystallinity: Additional analysis of micromorphology and phase behavior of both wax types.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 2, indicating a concept formulated but requiring further validation through targeted experiments on selected plant species.
About University of British Columbia
UBC is a comprehensive public research university with major campuses in Vancouver and the Okanagan, among Canada’s largest and most internationally connected. Industry engages through a co-op talent pipeline and collaborative research spaces that include co-located clinical settings and on‑campus testbeds. A dedicated technology transfer office brokers partnerships, manages IP and licensing, and is complemented by an active venture accelerator and incubator network. Research is supported by competitive funding from Canada’s Tri‑Council agencies (NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC) and infrastructure investments from the Canada Foundation for Innovation, alongside provincial and industry sponsorship.
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