Towards direct and eco-friendly analysis of plants using portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry: A methodological approach.

The assessment of the nutritional status of plants is traditionally performed by wet-digestion methods using oven-dried and ground samples. This process requires sampling, takes time, and it is non-environmentally friendly. Agricultural and environmental science have been greatly benefited by in-field, ecofriendly methods, and real-time element measurements.

Detailed characterization of iron-rich tailings after the Fundão dam failure, Brazil, with inclusion of proximal sensors data, as a secure basis for environmental and agricultural restoration.

Following the Fundão dam failure in Brazil, 60 million m of iron-rich tailings were released impacting an extensive area. After this catastrophe, a detailed characterization and monitoring of iron-rich tailings is required for agronomic and environmental purposes. This can be facilitated by using proximal sensors which have been an efficient, fast, and cost-effective tool for eco-friendly analysis of soils and sediments.

Pocket-sized sensor for controlled, quantitative and instantaneous color acquisition of plant leaves.

The color of plant leaves can be assessed qualitatively by color charts or after processing of digital images. This pilot study employed a novel pocket-sized sensor to obtain the color of plant leaves. In order to assess its performance, a color-dependent parameter (SPAD index) was used as the dependent variable, since there is a strong correlation between SPAD index and greenness of plant leaves.

Assessing the tolerance of castor bean to Cd and Pb for phytoremediation purposes.

This study evaluated Cd and Pb accumulation by castor bean (Ricinus communis cv. Guarany) plants grown in nutrient solution, aiming to assess the plant's ability and tolerance to grow in Cd- and Pb-contaminated solutions for phytoremediation purposes. The plants were grown in individual pots containing Hoagland and Arnon's nutrient solution with increasing concentrations of Cd and Pb.