Agmatix BASF Partner to develop Soybean Cyst Nematode detection tool. (Image source: BASF)

Leading AI-powered solutions provider, Agmatix recently announced a strategic collaboration with BASF, one of the world’s largest chemical and agricultural solutions companies, to develop a cutting-edge digital solution aimed at detecting and predicting the presence of soybean cyst nematode (SCN) 

The collaboration began through AgroStart, an open innovation and partnership platform by BASF, that aims to empower soybean growers with real-time, scalable insights to mitigate yield losses caused by SCN, one of the most damaging and often invisible soybean pests. Axiom, an advanced AI technology engine developed by Agmatix is the core of this initiative. It transforms vast amounts of raw agronomic data into highly standardised and enriched datasets. This rigorous data process enables the development of a robust machine-learning model capable of detecting and predicting SCN infestations with unprecedented accuracy and scalability.

Developed through AgroStart by BASF, this initiative combines Agmatix’s AI-driven agronomic platform with the deep expertise of BASF in seed and crop protection solutions and will foster the development of a scalable, user-friendly digital model. The tool will integrate with existing farm management practices, enabling users to access near real-time SCN risk assessments and tailor their pest management strategies accordingly.

SCN remains the leading pest in soybeans, with infestations frequently going undetected until yields are significantly affected. Traditional detection methods, such as soil sampling or mid-season root digs, are time-consuming, labour-intensive and not widely adopted. A digital tool could help create awareness and compliment these traditional methods.

By providing accurate, predictive data on SCN infestations, the Agmatix-BASF collaboration paves the way for future innovations in pest management and digital agriculture. The joint effort represents a significant leap forward in integrating digital agriculture with crop protection strategies, demonstrating how advanced analytics can drive on-farm decision-making and improve agronomic outcomes.

“Our collaboration with BASF is driven by the urgent need to provide a practical, data-backed tool that helps growers minimise yield losses caused by SCN,” added Ron Baruchi, president & CEO at Agmatix. “By digitising large volumes of field trial data within Axiom, we believe our machine learning model will give growers the power to act before SCN causes irreversible damage.”

Perstorp has long been dedicated to driving the transformation of the chemical industry with a clear ambition to become Finite Material Neutral. (Image source: Perstorp)

Leading global specialty chemicals innovator Perstorp, recently announced that the Animal Nutrition focused plant in Waspik, has officially reduced its direct emissions (Scope 1 & 2) to report zero over 2024

In an attempt to bring down greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, Perstorp Waspik has taken several steps including replacing all fossil fuel forklift trucks with electric ones and all lighting by LED. In addition to this, all natural gas has been replaced by biogas and total electricity used is renewable. The company is on a lookout to further reduce its environmental footprint. 

Perstorp has long been dedicated to driving the transformation of the chemical industry with a clear ambition to become Finite Material Neutral. It has science based reduction targets for Scope 1, 2 and 3. For scope 1 & 2 emissions, the target is a reduction of 46.2% in 2030 compared to a 2019 base year. This is consistent with the reductions required to keep global warming limited to 1.5°C, the most ambitious goal of the Paris Agreement.

To reach these targets, each site has its own roadmap of identified activities to reach the site’s sustainability targets. Site Waspik has managed to execute all its activities in the scope 1 & 2 roadmap, and in 2024 has reduced their greenhouse gas emissions from operations to zero. 

“Perstorp is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its business activities. I am proud that in Perstorp Animal Nutrition, we continue to accelerate the delivery of our sustainability improvement targets, and we are showing real, meaningful results," said Ian Atterbury, senior vice president of Perstorp Animal Nutrition. "Our production site in Waspik achieving zero scope 1 & 2 emissions, is a major step forward in this journey. It is our ambition to be a partner in sustainable animal production for our customers. We aim to show that we can help not only through supporting performance and health, but also by reducing the environmental footprint of our products, to bring down the total impact of animal production.” 

By controlling the moisture during the weighing up of the raw materials, it is possible to correctly control the protein content of the final pellet and guarantee superior product quality. (Image source: Hydronix)

Knowing and controlling the moisture content of your materials from the introduction of the raw materials to the packaging of the final product is key to maximising efficiency, optimising yield and producing a high-quality, consistent product

The perfect solution is to constantly measure the flowing materials’ moisture content and correct moisture variations in real-time. The use of online moisture measurement sensors enables the control system to automatically react to changes and adjust the process to achieve a continuous and precise moisture level in the material, whether for storage, further processing, or final packaging.

Why should you measure moisture?

1. Raw materials vary in moisture content, and this variation leads to weighing discrepancies.
2. Accurate control of the moisture during the drying process prevents under-drying and over-drying.

Where should you measure moisture?

Moisture control throughout the process allows the production of higher quality, balanced and more valuable feed:

• Drying for Storage at the outlet of a dryer
• Milling / Tempering at the inlet of the tempering system
• Pelleting / Conditioning during the conditioning process
• Drying for packaging at the outlet of a dryer

Online vs offline moisture measurement?

Measuring online in real-time offers significant benefits over offline measurements. Periodic offline sampling is time-consuming and subject to:

• Equipment measurement errors
• Process errors
• Sampling errors

Installing and integrating an online sensor to measure the moisture continuously gives a much better method for monitoring the material flow. 

Benefits

By controlling the moisture during the weighing up of the raw materials, it is possible to correctly control the protein content of the final pellet and guarantee superior product quality. There are also cost benefits of water control ranging from an increase in the yield from a raw material, a reduction in spoiled material and optimisation of the energy input into the processes.

Conclusion

Using a consistent blend of usable materials and maintaining a constant final moisture target saves energy and extends the time between dryer maintenance. Benefits also include producing a consistent feed with a repeatable and homogenous nutritional value and a reliable shelf life.

The Hydronix XT range of sensors use an industry-leading Digital Microwave Measurement Technique and have a proven track record in these types of applications throughout the world. In addition, the sensors are simple to install and require very little maintenance.

Read the entire article: https://hubs.li/Q0375dLh0

BKT has analysed the main trends that will shape the future of agricultural tires, matching the expectations of leading tractor and farm machinery manufacturers. (Image source: BKT)

BKT, as a leading Off-Highway tire manufacturer is pursuing its goal of bringing to life high-performance tires that meet stringent application standards and sustainability criteria

Traditional farming techniques are being overtaken by more efficient and productive operations, partly thanks to the arrival of Agriculture 4.0 applications. These include precision farming, IoT sensors, crop monitoring drones, as well as an entire series of devices and technologies that allow for 360-degree process optimisation. A new scenario where sustainability is at the center of this transformation process. BKT has analysed the main trends that, according to the company, will shape the future of agricultural tires, matching the expectations of leading tractor and farm machinery manufacturers. 

Sustainability and environmentally sustainable materials 

There is a growing industry focus on biodegradable or recycled materials, making sustainability a priority for original equipment. As a response to this trend, tire manufacturers will increase their focus on the use of materials such as natural rubber or recycled compounds to reduce the environmental footprint. Also, the tire design will be conceived with due regard for improved fuel efficiency and thus to lower emissions.

Smart tires and IoT integration 

Next-generation tires will gradually integrate IoT sensors for real-time communication of pressure, wear, and performance data, also preventing maintenance interventions for reduced downtime. Moreover, the sensors will be able to provide relevant information on soil conditions, temperature, and load in view of optimising overall performance and farming yields.

Endurance and durability 

Increasing operational complexity requires ever stronger and more durable solutions. That is why compounds, tread design, and sidewalls will be optimised for an enhanced product life-cycle and increased product suitability for both traditional and modern practices.

Advanced manufacturing techniques 

On the production side, too, we will witness the advancement of cutting-edge techniques, such as 3D printing, which would greatly accelerate a tire’s time-to-market while increasing their customization, thus meeting the specific needs of individual operators in a targeted manner.

Customisation and adaptability 

It is quite likely that in the future we will experience increasing flexibility and modularity of tires, which would then be able to easily adjust tire features according to the season, type of application, and field conditions. Hybrid tires will also gain ground and be able to handle a wide range of agricultural tasks, leading to greater versatility.

Hence, the future of the tire industry, notably the premium tire industry, will therefore be increasingly influenced and determined by the ongoing advancement of technology and an increased focus on sustainability and crop protection. Future-oriented manufacturers like BKT, who make performance, durability, and the environment three main pillars of continuous improvement, will be emerging with a view to growth and their ability to meet the complex needs of modern manufacturers.