Synthesis of Fluorescent Compounds to Detect Ethylene Gas
Ethylene gas is an important biological molecule in plants as it is involved in numerous developmental processes, such as the ripening of climacteric fruits. Remarkably, 45% of all fruits and vegetables are wasted, and the premature ripening of fruits is responsible for a large amount of this waste especially in developing countries where food resources are less abundant. We are investigating new techniques to quantifiably detect ethylene gas, which could help reduce food spoilage during the processing and distribution of produce and lead to better understanding of the underlying roles of ethylene.
