KERI revealed the creation of a ‘Microwave Penetration Heating Technology,’ which promises to effectively manage crop diseases and pests without the use of pesticides. (Image courtesy of KERI)
CHANGWON, Dec. 21 (Korea Bizwire) – The Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute (KERI) has announced a groundbreaking development in agricultural pest control that leverages the core principle of microwave operation.
On September 20, Dr. Jung Sunshin and his team at KERI revealed the creation of a ‘Microwave Penetration Heating Technology,’ which promises to effectively manage crop diseases and pests without the use of pesticides.
This innovation addresses the challenges of continuous cropping – a practice where the same crop is planted successively in the same field, leading to decreased yield and quality.
Continuous cropping often results in soil-borne diseases, fungi, and pests. While pesticides are commonly used to tackle these issues, they pose problems such as ecological damage, increased resistance, and residual toxicity.
Traditional methods like leaving land fallow for extended periods to recover are not feasible for many farmers who depend on agriculture as their livelihood.
KERI’s technology introduces microwaves deep into the soil, heating the soil moisture to target and control temperature-sensitive pests and diseases. The institute has developed a unique antenna that minimizes the diffraction of microwaves, ensuring effective pest control.
The microwaves emitted from the antenna are directed to converge at specific points underground, amplifying their amplitude through wave superposition. This process enables heating of soil depths exceeding 30 cm.
This approach is unprecedented globally, as most existing research or commercial applications, like in Australia, have been limited to shallow soil depths and weed control due to the microwaves’ tendency to scatter and fail in penetrating deeper than about 10cm.
The microwaves selectively heat the soil moisture to temperatures between 60 and 100 degrees Celsius, effectively killing pests like ants at 50 degrees, nematodes at 60 degrees, and pathogens at 80 degrees.
The soil’s thermal insulation properties ensure that the heat does not dissipate quickly, maintaining its effectiveness against pests.
KERI embarked on this project at the request of the National Plant Quarantine Service. The technology, now transferred to the specialized pest control device company Jueun Care Farm, is expected to play a significant role in reducing the damage from continuous cropping in agriculture.
This eco-friendly microwave pest control device not only promises to increase agricultural productivity and farmers’ incomes but also represents a potential solution to a longstanding issue in both domestic and international agriculture.
Beyond agriculture, KERI envisions diverse applications for this technology. Experts suggest its potential use in non-destructively eradicating invasive species like termites, red fire ants, and tropical fire ants from habitats such as ports and airports.
Additionally, its ability to heat asphalt and concrete opens possibilities for removing winter road hazards like black ice and repairing potholes and cracks on major roads and highways, heralding a new era in agricultural and infrastructure maintenance.
Dr. Jung expressed optimism about the technology’s potential, stating, “We anticipate effectively controlling pests and diseases in crops without the concerns of pesticide side effects or environmental pollution.
This advancement can enhance agricultural productivity and increase farmers’ incomes.” This development marks a significant step forward in sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
