Rapid detection of VOC emissions from food using FTIR spectroscopy
A novel FTIR spectroscopy system for fast, automated detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from food products, enhancing sustainability by reducing sample costs and time.
Overview
This innovative solution uses Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to rapidly detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from food products, particularly focusing on animal proteins. By coupling FTIR with a temperature-controllable sample chamber, the system can automate the analysis of compounds such as hexanal within 15 minutes. This approach promises significant cost savings, with per-sample costs as low as $2 to $3, enhancing the sustainability of food monitoring processes.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes FTIR spectroscopy for fast, speciated analysis of VOCs
- Temperature-controllable chamber for precise sample management
- Capable of detecting and quantifying target compounds like hexanal
- Automated identification and quantification using unique IR fingerprints and custom protocols
- Requires minimal consumables, such as nitrogen or ultra zero air
Applications:
- Monitoring VOC emissions from animal protein products
- Enhancing sustainability in food production by reducing analysis costs and time
- Potentially applicable to other VOC-emitting processes in various industries
Technology readiness level
The technology is at TRL 4, indicating it has been validated in a laboratory environment. Further development will involve creating a portable chamber and generating standards for compound quantification. The project is expected to advance through additional validation within one year.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University is a comprehensive public research university with a multi-campus presence across the Phoenix metropolitan area and a scale that supports interdisciplinary, use-inspired discovery. Industry partners access co-located laboratories, a research and technology park, and innovation centers that house corporate teams with faculty to speed prototyping and validation. A formal alliance with a major hospital system and proximity to a fast-growing manufacturing corridor enable clinical translation and pilot-scale testbeds, while applied student engagements create dependable talent pipelines. Research is backed by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, DOD, and NASA. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP, licensing, and startup formation.
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