Analysis of Pesticides in the Field using a Handheld Raman Analyzer with SORS

Importance of the Topic

The global use of pesticides has reached millions of metric tons annually, raising concerns about human health and environmental safety. Rapid, on-site identification of agrochemicals is critical to ensure product authenticity, regulatory compliance and safe application.

Objectives and Overview of the Study

This application note evaluates the performance of a handheld Raman analyzer with spatially offset Raman spectroscopy capability for two real-world scenarios: preapplication field verification of pesticides and customs inspection of agrochemical consignments.

Employed Methodology and Instrumentation

Spatially offset Raman spectroscopy enables detection of chemical signatures through barriers such as colored plastics, dark glass and paper without sample preparation. The analyzer compares acquired spectra against onboard libraries (Standard, Toxic and Hazardous, Comprehensive) or user-created libraries built via PC-based fleet management software. Key features include battery operation, point-and-shoot analysis, rapid data acquisition and customizable spectral libraries.

Main Results and Discussion

• Field Verification of Pesticides: Nine commercial agrochemicals covering insecticides, herbicides and fungicides were measured in native containers and vials. High-quality spectra were obtained within two minutes per sample. A custom library allowed confirmation of triclopyr identity before application.
• Customs Inspection: Various consignments in plastic and paper containers were screened without opening. The analyzer correctly identified diflufenican and diflubenzuron with match quality above 97 percent, confirming documentation claims and detecting potential noncompliant products.

Benefits and Practical Applications of the Method

• No sample preparation or consumables required
• Rapid results on site, reducing costs and delays
• Through-barrier detection safeguards sample integrity
• Portable and battery powered for remote locations
• Comprehensive and user-defined spectral libraries enable targeted screening

Future Trends and Applications

Advances may include integration of artificial intelligence for automated spectral interpretation, expansion of library databases via cloud connectivity, broader adoption in supply chain monitoring and regulatory enforcement, and application to additional classes of agrochemicals and environmental contaminants.

Conclusion

The handheld Raman analyzer with spatially offset capability provides a versatile, rapid and reliable tool for in situ pesticide identification. Its portability, barrier-penetrating spectroscopy and customizable libraries address key challenges in agriculture safety and customs control, offering significant gains in efficiency and compliance.

References

1. Tostado L Pesticides and Agriculture Dangerous Substances Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung 2022
2. Crop Protection Chemicals Market Size Share Analysis Growth Trends Forecasts 2023–2028 Mordor Intelligence
3. Lopes-Ferreira M et al Impact of Pesticides on Human Health in the Last Six Years in Brazil International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2022 19(6) 3198
4. Crop Life Latin America What are the Forms of Illegal Trade in Agricultural Inputs in Latin America 2021
5. Mongabay News Borders between Mercosur Countries Become a Hub for Trafficking Agrochemicals May 2023