Development of controlled release tablet reagents embedded compact nutrient analyzer for continuous monitoring of nutrient content in crop body

We studied the method to make disposable reagent into controlled release tablet reagents. Moreover, we developed compact nutrient analyzer which consists of a microfluidic channel for chemical reaction between the tablet reagents for quantification of nutrient and the samples (extracted xylem sap, water in soil, etc.), a flow cell-based colorimetric signal detector, and an Arduino-based controller for the detector. The combination of the microfluidic channel with the controlled release tablet reagents allows small volume assays, resulting in periodic and automatic analysis for long duration. Experimental data showed the ability of periodic measurement for ammonia nitrogen which is one of the essential nutrients for plants. Our analyzer has a potential to realize the smart agriculture.