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Review Article

Recent advancements in microneedle sensing technology for monitoring plant health: A review
Vinayak Hegde1
,
Mahesh P. Bhat2*
,
Tean Chen3
,
Jeyeon Jang3
,
Kyeong-Hwan Lee1234
1Department of Convergence Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
2AI Agri-Tech Research Center, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
3Department of Rural and Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
4BK21 Interdisciplinary Program in IT-Bio Convergence System, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
*Corresponding Author
30 June 2024. pp. 134-150
PDF XML Citation
Abstract

Microneedle (MN) sensing technology is rapidly emerging as a revolutionary tool for monitoring plant health, offering significant advancements in precision agriculture. MNs, due to their minimal invasiveness, rapid response capabilities, and high precision, provide a superior alternative to traditional methods of detecting and analyzing biotic and abiotic stress factors in plants. These tiny, needle-like sensors, typically fabricated from biocompatible and biodegradable materials, can be inserted into plant tissues without causing significant damage. MNs are fabricated using diverse methods including 3D printing, etching processes, micromilling, and laser ablation, resulting in versatile designs tailored for specific applications. This review examines the recent progress in MN technology, emphasizing its application in agriculture for the extraction of plant sap, DNA, and secondary metabolites, as well as the detection of critical compounds. By providing precise and timely data, MN-based sensors can significantly enhance crop management practices, leading to improved yield and sustainability. The review also identifies current challenges and future directions for MN research, aiming to bridge the gap between advanced sensing technology and practical agricultural applications. Through these innovations, MN technology holds the potential to revolutionize plant health monitoring, contributing to global food security and environmental conservation.

Keywords
Microneedle
Biosensors
Plant health monitoring
Precision farming
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Information
  • Publisher :Korean Society of Precision Agriculture
  • Publisher(Ko) :한국정밀농업학회
  • Journal Title :Precision Agriculture Science and Technology
  • Journal Title(Ko) :정밀농업과학기술
  • Volume : 6
  • No :2
  • Pages :134-150
  • Received Date : 2024-06-24
  • Revised Date : 2024-06-25
  • Accepted Date : 2024-06-25
  • DOI :https://doi.org/10.22765/pastj.20240010
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