The IoT-enabled e-Nose sensor applies chemical-sensing technology to detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by citrus fruits when infested by key insect vectors such as Diaphorina citri, Trioza erytreae and Citriculus citrisuga. Using a compact chemical sensor array, the system captures scent fingerprints emitted during early infestation — even when no visual damage is present. These complex signals are analyzed using machine-learning techniques to distinguish infestation-related VOCs from background odors, enabling inspectors to detect hidden threats rapidly in warehouses, packing areas and import checkpoints.
To ensure reliable field performance, EmergeNOW develops dedicated VOC libraries derived from infested and non-infested citrus fruits, validated by advanced GC–MS profiling. The PEN-based e-Nose is then trained on these reference fingerprints and integrated with IoT gateways and a miniaturized processor for real-time wireless data transmission. This portable, non-destructive tool reduces the need for fruit cutting or laboratory testing, speeds up phytosanitary inspections, and supports early intervention against vector-borne diseases such as HLB and CBS.
