In-soil microbial activity sensing platform for row crops

Overview

The in-soil microbial activity sensing platform, developed by BioSensor Solutions and EarthOptics, offers a cutting-edge solution for monitoring and analyzing soil health in agricultural settings. By utilizing patented PHBV-carbon biosensors, this platform provides real-time insights into microbial activity, which is crucial for understanding soil health and optimizing crop management. The sensor measures changes in electrical resistance as a proxy for decomposition activity, which correlates with CO₂ emissions, microbial biomass, and soil organic carbon levels.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• PHBV-carbon biosensors: These sensors operate directly within the soil, detecting microbial depolymerization which alters electrical resistance.
• Advanced data streaming: Real-time data on soil temperature, moisture, in-situ CO₂, air temperature, and humidity is streamed via LoRaWAN/LTE.
• AI-driven analysis: EarthOptics' machine learning models, trained on a vast shotgun-metagenomics database, multiply sensor signals to provide detailed microbial and biological analytics.
• Comprehensive field deployment: Initial deployment includes 1000 acres across 20 fields, with plans for scale-up to over 100 fields.

Technology readiness level

The platform is currently at Technology Readiness Level 6, indicating that it has been demonstrated in a relevant environment. The ongoing validation phases involve extensive field testing and integration with existing agricultural management systems, ensuring readiness for broader commercial applications.