Macro and micronutrient measurements in hydroponics

Environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, light, air movement, CO2 and nutrient levels) are carefully monitored in controlled environment agriculture (CEA) to optimize indoor crop production. Irrigation management is prioritized to ensure nutrient availability to plants, water use efficiency, prevent plant nutrient diseases, maximize crop yield and boost desired phytochemical profiles for a given crop. Automated irrigation systems conventionally used in the commercial and legal indoor production of cannabis (Cannabis sativa), but often estimate nutrient content from electrical conductivity and pH readings. Real-time and accurate ion-specific electrode (ISE) measurements could revolutionize fertilizer use and recycling in closed loop systems, but these technologies require more scientific backing and in situ testing before they are confidently incorporated by industry. To avoid costly and time-consuming analyses for fertigate and plant tissue, modified protocols with colorimetric aquarium and water test kits have been proposed. A comparative investigation of commercially available kits and ISEs for determining content in hydroponic solutions will be conducted in a laboratory setting as part of this grant.

Faculty Supervisor:

Mark Lefsrud

Student:

Partner:

Innokore Solutions

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

McGill University

Program: