Laser-enhanced agrochemical absorption technology for sustainable farming

Technology
Conceptual
Company

A cutting-edge technology utilizing a 532 nm Nd:YAG laser to enhance agrochemical absorption in crops by selectively ablating the wax cuticle. This method improves efficiency, reduces environmental impact, and maintains plant health.

Overview

The laser-enhanced agrochemical absorption technology offers a novel approach to improve the efficiency of agrochemical use in farming. By employing a 532 nm Nd:YAG laser, this solution selectively ablates the wax cuticle on plant leaves, enhancing the absorption and bioavailability of foliar-applied agrochemicals. This leads to reduced application volumes, minimizing environmental contamination and associated costs, while preserving plant health and ensuring wax regeneration.

Technical specifications

Key features:

  • Utilizes a 532 nm Nd:YAG laser for precise cuticle ablation
  • Enhances uptake of Zn-based fertilizers, pesticides, and peptides
  • Demonstrates wax regeneration within 48 hours post-treatment
  • Maintains epidermal integrity, preventing increased pathogen susceptibility
  • Reduces agrochemical runoff and environmental contamination

Applications:

  • Suitable for use on citrus and soybean crops, with potential scalability
  • Field trials to confirm broad applicability across various agricultural settings
Technology readiness level

This technology is at Technology Readiness Level 3, having been validated in controlled settings with successful preliminary studies showing enhanced agrochemical uptake without compromising plant health. Further validation through field trials will confirm its efficacy and scalability.


About Onteko Inc

Onteko Inc. is a Mississippi-based startup specializing in advanced laser technology applications. The company develops proprietary laser-based solutions, including high-resolution Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) spectrometers and innovative laser pulse technology that utilizes burst-mode structures to enhance ionization and detection capabilities. Their work spans diverse sectors, such as developing laser techniques for agricultural efficiency, including nopal de-spining and foliar application methods, as well as specialized laser equipment for medical diagnostics and industrial materials analysis. By crafting inventive solutions and leveraging intellectual property, the team focuses on creating disruptive technologies that address specific industry bottlenecks while providing consulting services for laser process development, safety, and system optimization.

These solutions are designed to address critical inefficiencies in fields like agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing. For instance, their laser technologies offer precise, non-invasive methods for plant care and medical sampling, aiming to improve safety, reduce waste, and enhance performance compared to traditional processes. The company actively engages in research, development, and technical consulting, utilizing a deep expertise in laser science to help clients navigate complex technical challenges, improve existing laser systems, and implement new, specialized applications. Through a combination of hardware development and process innovation, Onteko seeks to drive technological progress and foster seamless technology transfer across various international industries.

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