AgroHeat is
developing and implementing a new physical method for controlling fungal
diseases in agriculture and horticulture. Fungal infestations pose a major
risk, whilst the range of approved fungicides is steadily shrinking. Moreover,
these products often work primarily as a preventative measure. In addition,
both countries and the EU are striving to reduce the use of chemical crop
protection. This challenge affects both sides of the border and impacts large
areas of crops. Consequently, there is a clear need for new, practical and
non-chemical solutions.
AgroHeat
utilises a physical principle. Fungal spores and young fungal tissue are more
sensitive to heat and UV light than the crop plant within a narrow temperature
range. A precisely dosed heat treatment, applied either alone or in combination
with hot water mist and UV irradiation, combats fungi without damaging the
crop.
The project
translates this principle into a practical system for use in the field. To this
end, a machine system is being developed that can be deployed behind an
(electric) tractor or on a self-propelled agricultural robot. Under cover, a
climate is created for a short, controlled period in which the fungus is
affected, whilst the crop remains unaffected. The concrete end products are six
different versions of a machine, for six crop-disease combinations: three
specific applications (downy mildew and septoria in onions, parsley and chives)
and three applications in other crops, which will be developed during the
project.
The
cross-border approach has advantages. The Netherlands is at the forefront of
monitoring, recording and interpreting disease thresholds and control timings.
Germany contributes technical expertise in the fields of mechanical engineering
and thermal, energy and sensor technology. Combining this expertise results in
a practical system that can be deployed in both countries.
