The Brawijaya University (UB) Student Creativity Program (PKM) team developed a “Spectroscopy-Based Portable Soil Fertility Detection Device”.
The team is students from the Faculty of Agricultural Technology (FTP) consisting of Atikah Puti Kaisuri, Setiyaki Aruma Nandi, Fathan Tara, Keiza Alfera Hummairo Assyura, and Fransiskus Rio Pandi. They developed this device under the guidance of lecturer Dr.Agr.Sc. Ir. Dimas Firmanda Al Riza, ST., M.Sc, IPM.
This device utilizes spectroscopy technology to detect soil nutrient content more efficiently and ergonomically. This innovative device uses the “Sparkfun Triad Sensor” to measure the spectrum of light emitted or absorbed by the soil, providing accurate information regarding soil quality and fertility.
“It is very important for farmers to understand and measure soil fertility levels in order to optimize agricultural production. However, existing detection tools are often difficult to access or impractical to use in the field. “Therefore, we created this device so that it can help farmers detect soil fertility easily and quickly,” said the Team Leader, Atikah Puti Kaisuri.
This soil nutrient content detection device has a portable design that allows farmers to carry it to various areas of the planting field.
“With the detection results obtained from this device, farmers can take appropriate steps to improve soil quality, such as selecting appropriate plant types and adjusting the fertilizer needed,” continued Atika.
This innovation is expected to bring significant changes in the agricultural sector, help farmers to optimize agricultural production, and support the country’s food security.
“With a strong spirit of innovation and collaboration between academics and agricultural practitioners, we are moving towards superior agriculture that is sustainable and efficient,” she said.
With a more efficient and ergonomic soil nutrient content detection device, farmers are expected to be able to manage their planted land better, produce higher quality agricultural products, and improve their economic welfare.
“This is the hope which will create more advanced agriculture and make a major contribution to the country,” she concluded.
The Student Creativity Program (PKM) is a forum formed by the Directorate of Student Affairs and Studies under the Ministry of Research, Technology and Higher Education (Kemenristek Dikti) of the Republic of Indonesia to facilitate prospective Indonesian students to learn and develop and apply the science and technology learned in lectures to the wider community. PKM aims to increase creativity, improve the ability to write and convey and express ideas, gain experience, recognition, and build knowledge or relationships. PKM continues to prove its existence in presenting innovations that are beneficial for society.
Further information regarding the Spectroscopy-Based Portable Soil Fertility Detection Device can be seen via the Instagram account @tanahkita_subur.kc. [*/Irene/ UB PR/ Trans. Iir]
