Automated nutrient dosing system for hydroponics using IoT technology

Abu Seman, Anwar Din (2024) Automated nutrient dosing system for hydroponics using IoT technology. Project Report. Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Melaka, Malaysia. (Submitted)

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Abstract

Hydroponics has become very popular for home plant growth due to its efficiency and space-saving nature. However, this method of cultivation has its drawbacks, such as limited real-time monitoring of nutrient concentrations and the inability to maintain optimal conditions because of evaporation and environmental changes. This research, therefore, is a design and implementation of a reliable and efficient automated nutrient dosing system in hydroponics using IoT technology. This shall monitor and control fertilizer concentration in the hydroponic tank. The system is also remotely accessible via a smartphone interface. Lactuca Sativa or lettuce was selected for the research study since it is one of the most widely cultivated plants by hydroponic farmers. Extensive literature review was done to identify the components required for developing the system: a peristaltic pump, ESP32 microcontroller, and TDS sensor. After the installation of hardware, calibration of sensors and integration with a smartphone application was done using Arduino IDE to ensure functionality and accurate data monitoring. During the experimental phase, the volume of nutrient solutions A and B was determined in order to reach a target concentration of 200 ppm in a 1-liter tank. By using a calibration equation, y = 0.0102x + 0.4609, it was found that 2.5 ml of fertilizers A and B gave the best dosing rate for 1-liter tanks. It also established that, for submersible pumps, this high flow rate of 33.25 ml/s is not suitable for the precise dosage of fertilizers. In such a case, peristaltic pumps were used and programmed with the volume they should dispense to the plants for their nutritional needs. This serves to greatly improve hydroponic fertilizer systems by significantly saving fertilizer costs while reducing environmental pollution from over fertilization. The integration of IoT-based automation has huge potential to revolutionize hydroponic practices in a more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable.

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