Distributed UV and Near Infra-Red and Fluorescence sensing system for real time monitoring of food quality and contamination and process control

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Measuring and managing quality in grain milling while processing has to date not been achieved due to the available technologies and their cost. The project seeks to develop Near Infra-Red and UV Fluoresence sensors that will be accurate and cost effective, which will enable in-process control of protein, moisture and contaminants such as mycotoxins and other key parameters to be measured in real time.The proposed project will utilise photonic technology to develop an innovative solution to replace conventional technologies. This approach also opens opportunities for integration into process control systems making the milling process more efficient, improving yields and more cost effective.Near Infra-Red (NIR) spectroscopy is the principle technology used to determine the physical properties and quality of foodstuffs such as flour, and can also be applied to industrial sectors handling powdered products, such as polymers. UV Fluorescence Spectroscopy is being used to detect the presence of potentially harmful mycotoxins.