(486b) Advanced Technologies for Enhanced Crop Yield, Optimal Fertilization, and Food Safety Monitoring.

The sustainable productivity of agricultural systems increasingly depends on efficient nutrient management and contaminant monitoring. This integrated study explores innovative applications of Raman spectroscopy and optimized hydroponic substrates to address critical challenges in crop nutrition and food safety. First, Raman spectroscopy was employed to facilitate early, non-invasive detection of nitrogen deficiency in Arabidopsis and leafy vegetables. A distinct Raman peak at 1046 cm⁻¹ served as a reliable biomarker, allowing timely fertilizer intervention to enhance crop yields.

In parallel, we developed a cost-effective, Raman spectroscopy-based method for monitoring arsenic contamination in vegetable crops, a significant concern for food safety. Key Raman peaks at 865 cm⁻¹, indicative of arsenic concentration, and at 1046 cm⁻¹, inversely correlated with arsenic stress, provided a robust detection framework. This advancement presents a practical tool for farmers to mitigate arsenic risks, thereby promoting safer agricultural practices.

Lastly, we investigated the application of chitosan polymer and biochar in hydroponic systems, aiming to improve water absorption, nutrient retention, and root growth. The results indicated that integrating chitosan polymer and biochar into hydroponic sponges significantly enhanced biomass production by improving nutrient use efficiency. This substrate optimization strategy demonstrates substantial promise for advancing hydroponic farming productivity.

Collectively, these research endeavors present complementary technologies that can significantly improve crop management practices, enhance agricultural sustainability, and ensure food safety and security.