![[BioMatNet Database - FAIR Program]](../images/Fair.gif) |
FAIR-CT95-1169
The Development of Spectroscopic Techniques as Advanced Sensors for the Optimisation and Control of Food and Paper Processing |
 |
The Development of Spectroscopic Techniques as Advanced Sensors for the Optimisation and Control of Food and Paper Processing |
SUMMARY
This project does not fall directly into the areas designated as Non-Food, but contains aspects which are of relevance. It concerns the use of robust and reliable sensors based on spectroscopic techniques; notably infrared and Raman spectroscopies for the analysis biological materials. Substantial development work has already been carried out, some of which has been coordinated with EU funding as a FLAIR Concerted Action. This project aims to build on this previous work that highlighted key areas of application and clearly demonstrated the potential of these methods in work extending to the paper industry.
OBJECTIVES
This project will investigate the requirement of the European food and paper industries for robust and reliable sensors based on spectroscopic techniques. In recent years there has been an increasing interest in the use of infrared and Raman spectroscopies for the analysis biological materials. Substantial development work has taken place within Europe on the development and application of these methods. This work some of which has been coordinated with EU funding (e.g. FLAIR Concerted Action Nol 'QUESr), has highlighted key areas of application and clearly demonstrated the enormous potential that exists. It has been shown, for example, that multi component quantitative analysis can be performed on a wide range of samples, that qualitative data can be obtained allowing improved quality control and assisting product development and the menthols offer rapid and sensitive detection of adulteration. However, the major technical hurdles to be addressed relate to the unsuitability of current analytical instrumentation for deployment in industrial environments. The maximum benefit of this new technology will be realised when near and on line versions of the instruments are produced. This proposal involves partners with the diverse expert skills required to solve the existing technical problems in order to produce equipment suitable for use in industrial settings. The project will consists of three distinct phases.
Phase 1 will involve an in depth study of the samples chosen for analysis by partners representing end users in the food and paper industries. For each product the optimum sample presentation method will be identified and suitable calibration models developed. This work will identify the optimum spectroscopic method and will define the type of instrument required e.g. infrared, Raman fixed wavelength or full spectrum. During this phase the environmental conditions of deployment will be determined. A critical analysis of potential conditions of deployment will be determined. A critical analysis of potential technical solutions will be produced allowing the end users to have input into the specification of factory equipment.
Phase 2 will involve the design and construction of prototype sensors based on the end users requirements using the most suitable and modern technology. This is expected to lead to near and on line infrared and Raman spectrometers and near line optothermal instruments able to withstand severe operating conditions. During this phase key components will be tested on suitable pilot plant.
Phase 3 will involve combing hardware and calibration software followed by rigorous pilot plant
and on line testing of the prototype instruments. The results will be used to fine tune the instruments and
lead to a full appraisal and evaluation. The end product will be in the form of working prototypes and technical
knowhow required fore the future development of production systems.
Contacts
Coordinator
EC Scientific Officer
© Copyright 2006 Policy Statements
Updated
by CPL Press:
03/07/2007
- biomatnet@biomatnet.org
 |
 |
 |
News |
 |
Events |
|
|