Smart Coatings for Early Pest Detection: Catching Plant Signals with SERS-MOF Technology
Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a highly sensitive technique capable of identifying trace amounts of molecules by capturing their unique vibrational fingerprints. Detection limits can reach from the parts per billion (ppb) down to the parts per trillion (ppt), making SERS ideal for early-stage diagnostics. However, the technique relies on close proximity between the target molecules and a nanostructured metallic surface, which poses a challenge when dealing with volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—gaseous biomarkers emitted by plants under stress or infection.
As part of the PurPest project, SINTEF is addressing this challenge by developing hybrid sensing platforms that combine SERS-active substrates with metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). MOFs are porous, crystalline materials with high surface area and tuneable pore structures, enabling selective adsorption of VOCs. When coated onto SERS substrates, MOFs act as molecular traps, concentrating VOCs near the metallic surface and significantly enhancing signal strength. This approach allows for rapid, reliable detection of plant pest related VOCs in real-world environments.
For growers and inspectors, this means faster decisions, healthier crops, and reduced losses—all with a compact, reusable sensor that could be deployed directly in the field.
Plant Pest Prevention through Technology-guided monitoring and site-specific control
Ongoing | 2023-2026
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- France, Germany, Slovakia, Italy, Portugal, Czechia, Lithuania, Netherlands, Norway, Great Britain, Switzerland