GATE  VIRTUAL 2021

DPI Senior Soils Researcher Ehsan Tavakkoli  is developing a potential solution to subsoil constraints by incorporation of chemically balanced nano-amendments through completed GRDC and prospective Soil CRC projects.
More than 60% of Australia’s cropping soils have subsoil constraints that limit productivity. By example the annual opportunity cost of soil sodicity for wheat production has been estimated to be worth $1.3 billion and for soil acidity, $0.4 billion. Ehsan is developing pathways for research outcomes by considering the desirability, viability and adoption pathway for industry.

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Contact DPI researcher: ehsan.tavakkoli@dpi.nsw.gov.au

DPI has various R&D based decision support and forecasting tools. DPI Leader Value Chains - Edwina Toohey and Development officer Kathryn Egerton -Warburton (pictured), are examining opportunities for integration of digital tools, enabling
availability and adoption to solve important problems within primary industries.

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Contact DPI researcher: Kathryn.ederton-warburton@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Aloxitech founder and material scientist, Dr Jinqhua Fang is developing a non toxic food packaging material which slows down the food ripening process at room temperature, keeping food fresher longer, it reduces food waste and
contributes to a greener planet. This unique material has been granted a patent and is a “flexible ceramic”which absorbs airborne chemicals in the vicinity of fresh produce. It is a solid flexible sheet which can be applied to various types of packaging materials, eg metallic and plastic foils, cardboard and foam trays.

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Contact  Dr Jinghua Fang : jhfangstar@gmail.com

UNSW Research and Nanosoils founder Cong Vu has developed techniques to  precisely make silica particles at the nanoscale to help plants absorb
silica via root or leaves easier. By loading agrochemincals inside silica nanoparticles,
pesticide loss or degradation is minimised and the crop is protected for a longer time. 
In nature, silica is one of the most abundant minerals widely distributed in sand and dust. As such, it is environmentally sourced and degraded. For more go to www.nanosoils.com 

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Contact:  Cong Vu: Cong@nanosoils.com 

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VANILLA DOME
David Soo,  Vanilla Dome founder, uses technology to replicate the delicate conditions needed to grow vanilla beans. The remote and automated system creates a tropical climate through vents, misting and heating systems on 3D rotating trellis.

This micro climate system has potential for other greenhouse crops.  
Vanilla Dome has also developed a vanilla processing system that preserves quality, generates high yields and reduces waste.

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Contact: David Soo:  david.soo@adventgrp.com.au

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