The Latest in Agriculture: How Spectroscopy is Advancing the Field

Last year on February 1^st, 2024, Spectroscopy magazine launched an online content series titled, “Advancing Agriculture for Future Generations.” We decided to do a series on the agriculture industry because spectroscopy is being routinely used in the field, a trend that is expected to continue for the foreseeable future.

Agriculture is a cornerstone of human civilization, essential for food production and economic growth. Over time, it has evolved with technological advancements, including precision farming and genetically modified (GMO) crops. However, challenges such as climate change, sustainability, and food security persist (1). Modern agriculture increasingly relies on spectroscopy to enhance productivity and environmental monitoring. Remote sensing techniques using satellite and drone-based spectroscopy help assess crop health, optimize irrigation, and improve pest management (1). Spectroscopy also aids in food quality assessment and soil analysis, ensuring efficient resource use (1).

As a follow-up to this content series from last year, we include a compilation of some of the most recent studies that used spectroscopy and agriculture. Happy reading!

Tractor spraying pesticides at soy bean field | Image Credit: © Dusan Kostic - stock.adobe.com

Evaluation and Development Trends of Optical Detection Technology for Seed Vigor

This peer-reviewed article explores the use of optical technology for assessing seed vigor, which traditionally relied on time-consuming and error-prone methods. Optical techniques offer high precision, efficiency, and automation in seed evaluation. The article reviews various optical methods, their principles, advantages, and limitations in non-destructive single-seed detection (2). It also examines the current state of optical detection technology and discusses future research directions, including seed characteristic spectrum databases, intelligent sorting, and grading equipment (2). These advancements aim to enhance seed quality assessment.

Revolutionizing Fertilizer Analysis: Raman Spectroscopy and Machine Learning Deliver Precision and Speed

Researchers from Kunming University of Science and Technology developed a new method combining Raman spectroscopy and machine learning to analyze fertilizer nutrients. Published in Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy, their study highlights how this approach improves accuracy, overcomes challenges in quantifying multiple components, and reduces cross-contamination risks (3). This advancement helps farmers ensure they use optimal fertilizers, ultimately enhancing crop growth and maximizing harvest yields through more precise nutrient analysis (3).

Measuring Soil Potassium with Near-Infrared Spectroscopy

A study led by Huazhou Chen from Guilin University of Technology explores improved methods for measuring soil potassium, a key nutrient for crop growth and yield. Published in Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy, the research introduces a novel hybrid variable selection strategy to enhance measurement accuracy, aiding farmers and scientists in optimizing fertilization plans and boosting agricultural productivity (4). This advancement supports better soil management, ultimately contributing to more efficient and sustainable farming practices (4).

How Raman Spectroscopy is Advancing Sustainable Farming Practices

This review, published in Sustainability by Aneta and Bogdan Saletnik’s team at the University of Rzeszów, explores Raman spectroscopy’s role in digital agriculture (5). The technique’s nondestructive nature makes it valuable for crop monitoring, diagnosing plant stresses, and promoting sustainability (5). It bridges scientific knowledge and practical farming needs, enhancing productivity and environmental stewardship (5). The article highlights Raman spectroscopy’s potential to transform agricultural practices through improved analysis and decision-making.

A Review of the Latest Spectroscopic Research in Agriculture Analysis

This review article highlights recent advancements in spectroscopic techniques—atomic, vibrational, molecular, electronic, and X-ray—for agricultural analysis. It covers their applications in assessing quality parameters, detecting adulteration, identifying insect and rodent infestations, and monitoring ripening, emphasizing their critical role in ensuring food safety and quality (6).

References

1. Wetzel, W. Advancing Agriculture For Future Generations: A Joint LCGC and Spectroscopy Content Series. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/advancing-agriculture-for-future-generations-a-joint-lcgc-and-spectroscopy-content-series (accessed 2025-01-29).
2. Xiaoyu, W.; Mingdong, Z.; Jie, L.; et al. Evaluation and Development Trends of Optical Detection Technology for Seed Vigor. Spectroscopy 2025, ASAP. DOI: 10.56530/spectroscopy.jf4177k4
3. Wetzel, W. Revolutionizing Fertilizer Analysis: Raman Spectroscopy and Machine Learning Deliver Precision and Speed. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/revolutionizing-fertilizer-analysis-raman-spectroscopy-and-machine-learning-deliver-precision-and-speed (accessed 2025-01-29).
4. Wetzel, W. Measuring Soil Potassium with Near-Infrared Spectroscopy. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/measuring-soil-potassium-with-near-infrared-spectroscopy (accessed 2025-01-29).
5. Wetzel, W. How Raman Spectroscopy is Advancing Sustainable Farming Practices. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/how-raman-spectroscopy-is-advancing-sustainable-farming-practices (accessed 2025-01-29).
6. Workman, Jr., J. A Review of the Latest Spectroscopic Research in Agriculture Analysis. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/a-review-of-the-latest-spectroscopic-research-in-agriculture-analysis (accessed 2025-01-29).