E-nose
The implementation of e-nose technology for the detection of Brown Root Rot Disease (BRRD) in trees presents a significant advancement in tree management and disease control. The conventional diagnosis methods involving observation by arborists and subsequent PCR testing have limitations, particularly in detecting early-stage infections, thereby posing safety risks. The integration of e-nose technology addresses this challenge by detecting gas releases from fungi during the initial stages of infection, enabling the prompt identification of BRRD. The Cyranose® 320 e-nose system, with its array of 32 sensors, has been carefully selected for this purpose, providing non-selective responses to various chemical vapors and fulfilling the portability requirement for field surveys.
Operational aspects of the e-nose, including the sampling process and data interpretation, have been meticulously detailed, ensuring efficient and accurate detection of BRRD. Furthermore, previous studies have yielded valuable insights, such as emission analysis and the application of e-nose standard and alternative sensor modules, contributing to the refinement of detection techniques. Ongoing research focusing on increasing the sample size for e-nose modeling and the development of a user-friendly interface demonstrates a commitment to enhancing detection accuracy and usability.
In summary, the integration of e-nose technology represents a pivotal advancement in the detection, classification, and treatment of BRRD in trees, promising to revolutionize the field of tree disease management and contribute significantly to the preservation and safety of urban tree populations.