In the past, explosions were a major issue in the U.S. grain industry. But since new safety regulations by OSHA in 1988, these incidents have decreased significantly.
Despite these improvements, grain handling facilities still face an average of about 8.4 incidents each year over the last decade. This trend has resulted in numerous injuries, deaths, millions in damages, and operational delays, according to Kingsly Ambrose, a professor at Purdue University specializing in agricultural engineering.
Ambrose is focused on particle science and its applications in preventing grain dust explosions. His work also includes improving fertilizers and modeling grain damage. His research is backed by the USDA, CNH Industrial, and Bayer.
“Our research is paving the way for safer agricultural practices,” Ambrose explains. “By developing better fertilizers and preventing dust explosions, we aim to enhance productivity while ensuring safety.”
Ambrose’s team has patented innovative techniques, including a method to measure dust accumulation in grain facilities. Previously, operators had no reliable way to continuously monitor dust levels. These discoveries have been protected by patents filed through Purdue’s Office of Technology and Commercialization.
One notable innovation is an AI algorithm that calibrates dust measurements based on the type of grain. Since different grains produce varying amounts of dust, this technology enhances measurement accuracy.
Grain damage is a critical concern in agriculture. Up to 10% of grains can be damaged during harvesting and storage, impacting quality and value. “Understanding how damage occurs allows us to help companies refine their processes,” says Ambrose.
His research integrates model development with lab experiments to identify damage sources during harvesting. This knowledge helps improve the machinery used in these processes.
Ambrose’s approach has also improved urea fertilizers, making them more efficient. By agglomerating urea granules, he creates larger, longer-lasting clusters that reduce leaching, which can lead to land and water pollution.
With ongoing projects supported by the USDA Agriculture and Food Research Initiative, he continues to collaborate with experts from various fields to enhance fertilizer technology.
Ambrose’s journey in particle research began during his PhD at Purdue, where he recognized the importance of interdisciplinary education. Now, he guides students in a lab that promotes innovation across agricultural, engineering, and food science disciplines.
“Using particle technology is key to building a sustainable future in agriculture,” he asserts. His team includes undergraduates and graduates who work on diverse projects, even in areas like the beverage industry.
“The demand for expertise in particle science is growing,” Ambrose concludes. “This field is essential for advancing modern agriculture.”
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