CAPACITIVE SUGAR MOISTURE DETECTION DEVICE

Project Proposal- ABEN 23

ABEN 23
Project Proposal
Submitted to the Faculty of the Department of Agriculture and Food Engineering
College of Engineering and Information Technology
Cavite State University
Indang, Cavite

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and
Biosystems Engineering

Acosta, Dennisse Angelica

Gomez, John Rebb
Marasigan, Denz Gabriel
Penalba, Diana Marie
Tabligan, John Gabriel
Tayo, Rafael

June 2, 2023
INTRODUCTION
I-edit gamit ang Docs app
Gumawa ng mga pagbabago, mag-iwan ng
:
 Gumawa ng mga pagbabago, mag-iwan ng
Moisture
mga content
komentoisataibahagi
criticalsa
parameter in the sugar industry, influencing the quality, storage,
mga iba pa
and shelf life of sugar
upang products.
ma-edit Accurate moisture measurement is crucial for maintaining product
nang sabay.
consistency, optimizing production processes, and ensuring compliance with quality standards.
Traditionally,
SALAMATthe measurement
NA LANG of sugarANG
KUNIN moisture
APP content has relied on time-consuming and labor-
intensive methods, such as oven drying or refractometry. However, these methods suffer from
limitations, including sample destruction, measurement delays, and the need for skilled operators.
The primary objective of this project is to explore the capabilities and potential applications
of capacitive sugar moisture sensors in the sugar industry. This study aims to investigate the
sensor's performance in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, response time, and repeatability, as well as
its suitability for different types of sugar, such as granulated sugar, powdered sugar, or syrup.
Furthermore, the research will delve into the development of calibration models and algorithms to
establish a relationship between the sensor output and the actual moisture content. The
proposed research will involve experimental investigations utilizing state-of-the-art capacitive
sugar moisture sensing technology (Ergun, Roja & Lietha, R & Hartel, R., 2010). A variety of
sugar samples with known moisture content will be used to validate the accuracy and precision of
the sensor measurements. Additionally, the effects of external factors such as temperature,
ambient humidity, and sample density on the sensor's performance will be evaluated to determine
its reliability in different operating conditions.
The outcomes of this research hold significant potential for the sugar industry, as the
adoption of capacitive sugar moisture sensors could revolutionize the moisture measurement
process. The benefits include improved product quality control, enhanced process efficiency,
reduced energy consumption, and minimized product waste. Furthermore, the non-destructive
nature of capacitive sensing allows for real-time monitoring throughout the production line,
facilitating proactive decision-making and ensuring consistent product quality. Furthermore, it
indicates requirements, economically important requirements, the shelf life of the food or food
products, food quality measurements, and food processing operations.
To overcome these challenges, the development of advanced sensing technologies has
gained significant attention in recent years. One such innovation is the capacitive sugar moisture
sensor, which offers a promising solution for real-time and non-destructive moisture content
measurement in sugar-based materials. The capacitive sensing principle relies on the variation of
dielectric properties caused by changes in moisture content, allowing for accurate and rapid
measurements. The development and implementation of capacitive sugar moisture sensors
present a promising advancement in the field of sugar industry quality control. Through this
research, we aim to establish the scientific foundation for the widespread adoption of this
technology, enabling sugar producers to optimize their processes, increase productivity, and meet
the growing demand for high-quality sugar products.

Statement of the Problem

The moisture content of sugar plays a critical role in determining its quality, storage stability,
:
 The moisture content of sugar plays a critical role in determining its quality, storage stability,
and overall usability since it can have a significant impact on the factors of the sugar such as
taste, texture, appearance, and weight. Since most of the colleges and universities do not have
any sugar moisture detection device it is essential to have this kind of device especially to those
studying about sugar in the Cavite State University. Therefore, the primary objective of this study
is to design, fabricate, and evaluate Capacitive Sugar Moisture Detection Device. Specifically this
study aims the following: firstly design the capacitive sugar moisture detection device. Secondly,
create a program using arduino for measuring the moisture content in sugar. Thirdly, fabricate a
device using a microcontroller and necessary components. And lastly to evaluate the
performance of the device.

Objective of the Study

The primary objective of this study is to design, fabricate and evaluate Capacitive Sugar
Moisture Detection Device. It specifically aims to:
1. Design the capacitive sugar moisture detection device;
2. Create a program using arduino for measuring the moisture content in sugar;
3. Fabrication of the device using microcontroller and necessary components;
4. Evaluate the performance of the device.

Significance of the Study

The study aims to design, fabricate and evaluate Capacitive Sugar Moisture Detection
Device. Particularly, it will prove beneficial to the following groups of people.

Farmers/Community. The findings of this study will aid in and provide knowledge on the
precise detection of moisture in sugar utilizing a program that will identify the moisture content of
sugar. This will assist in reducing the labor and cost associated with determining the moisture
content and improving the work in sugar.
Sugar Regulatory Administration. The results of this study will provide the Sugar
Regulatory Administration with a baseline of information. And will also demonstrate to them
additional techniques for identifying and calculating the moisture content of sugar. Lastly, this will
serve as a source for future research on sugar.
Sugar Manufacturers. Manufacturers of sugar may utilize this knowledge to make sure
their product satisfies the necessary requirements. Additionally, they may utilize it to keep an eye
on the caliber of their output and make any necessary modifications to their production method.
Food producers. Food producers may make sure that their goods have the appropriate
moisture content by using this study. For the preservation of the product's quality as well as food
safety, this is crucial.
Future Researchers. The study will be beneficial to students and researchers since it will
act as a guide and a reference for their related research and expand their knowledge to become
more accustomed to this kind of investigation.
:
 Time and Place of the study
The study is to design, fabricate and evaluate Capacitive Sugar Moisture Detection Device
was conducted at Cavite State University - Main Campus and the testing was conducted in
Department of Agricultural and Food Engineering (DAFE) 2. The study was conducted from June
to July 2023.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This section encompasses relevant literature that is highly pertinent to the project's subject
matter. The materials gathered in this section serve to provide a comprehensive understanding of
the existing knowledge and research related to the project, contributing to a clear overview of the
field's current state.

Sugar
A particular kind of carbohydrate, sugars also contain the molecules of carbon, hydrogen,
and oxygen. Along with proteins and lipids, carbohydrates play a crucial role in a balanced diet.
When taken, carbohydrates, with the exception of dietary fiber, are digested and converted into
glucose, which is used as an energy source by the majority of bodily tissues. Widely present in
nature, sugars are calorie-rich, sweet-tasting molecules that include fruits, vegetables, honey,
human and dairy milk. While numerous plants contain it, sugar is mostly obtained from sugarcane
and sugar beets because of their greater sugar content (Singh and Clarke). One glucose
molecule is joined to one fructose molecule to form sugar, also known chemically as sucrose
(Singh and Clarke). When glucose and fructose are combined, a dehydration event occurs that
releases one water molecule (H2O), combining the two sugars (Singh and Clarke). The link
between glucose and fructose and subsequently its crystal structure can be damaged by an
excessive amount of moisture, as in hydration with water.

Moisture Content
One of the most significant and often used metrics in the preparation and testing of food
commodities is moisture content determination. Moisture content is directly important
economically to both the processor and the customer since it is inversely correlated with the
amount of dry matter in a product. However, the impact of moisture on food quality and stability is
:
 amount of dry matter in a product. However, the impact of moisture on food quality and stability is
considerably more significant. A food product, like grain, with too much water in it may quickly
deteriorate due to mold development, heating, insect damage, and sprouting. With an increase in
moisture content, egg powders absorb oxygen more quickly and dried fruits and vegetables brown
more quickly (Coultate, 2002).
In many industrial challenges, such as the assessment of material balance or processing
losses, moisture determination is crucial. The amount of moisture in a food must be determined in
order to assess its nutritional value, represent analytical results uniformly, and adhere to
compositional standards or rules. Last but not least, it is frequently preferable to weigh samples
for analytical findings on a specific moisture basis (Meyer, 1968).

Moisture Content in Sugar

Sugar's physical characteristics, including its texture, solubility, and flowability, can be
impacted by moisture content. While too little moisture can make sugar brittle and hard, too much
moisture can make it sticky and difficult to handle. Depending on how it will be used, sugar will
require a different amount of moisture. For instance, brown sugar for coffee should have less
moisture than granulated sugar for baking. Sugar can become spoiled by mold and bacteria that
can grow in moist environments. Sugar is more prone to deteriorate the greater its moisture
content. In order to avoid moisture buildup, it is crucial to keep sugar in a cold, dry environment
(Meister Media Worldwide, 2019). Sugar's moisture content has a significant role in determining
its flavor, texture, shelf life, microbiological safety, and physical characteristics. To make sure that
sugar satisfies the standards for its intended usage, it is crucial to keep an eye on the moisture
content of the commodity.

Capacitive Moisture Sensor

Capacitive sensing method is a simple, express and economical technique that can be used
to estimate the moisture content of agricultural materials (Taghinezhad et al., 2012). Due to its
performance and convenience, capacitance sensor techniques are used in agriculture mainly for
detecting different parameters in food processing and even in measuring soil moisture. For
example, Lev et al. (2017) construct a novel laboratory capacitor in clarifying the relationship
between capacitive throughput sensor operating frequency, fill level and measured material
moisture content. Based on the results of the study of Kumhala et al. (2010), a parallel plate
capacitive throughput sensor is a potential approach for chopped maize continuous throughput
measurement. In addition, McIntosh and Casada concluded that Representative measurements of
wheat and corn indicate that the fringing field capacitive sensor offers a new and promising
capability to measure the MC, temperature, and compaction of bulk stored grain Moreover,
different studies each fabricated their own device have been conducted to measure soil moisture
using capacitive soil moisture sensors. Okasha et al. (2021) design and calibrate a low-cost,
effective capacitive soil moisture sensor attached to a smart monitoring unit that could be used in
controlled greenhouses. While Rende and Biage (2002), obtained results that allowed to infer that
:
 controlled greenhouses. While Rende and Biage (2002), obtained results that allowed to infer that
the behavior of the sensor has a specific feature for each type of soil, being, therefore, necessary
to develop a own calibration curve for the sensor, when used in soil with specific characteristic.
Also, capacitive soil moisture sensors can be programmed using Arduino software and devices
can be fabricated using microcontrollers for precise measurement of soil moisture content.
Furthermore, capacitive sensors are not complicated, show promising results and low prices
that greatly improve the way of measuring moisture content for agricultural commodities and soil.
Taghinezhad (2012) constructed A new parallel plate capacitance sensor to relate the moisture
content and dielectric properties of sugarcane stalks. In addition, the results revealed a relatively
strong quadratic relationship between the moisture content on green weight basis of sugarcane
material put through the plates of the sensor and the measured voltage (mV) by capacitance
sensor circuit output. Angkawisittpan and Mansari (2012) were successful in using the interdigital
capacitor sensor to be used as a sensor for inspecting sugar content in sugar solutions. Lastly,
this study aims to design, fabricate and evaluate a capacitive sugar moisture content device.

METHODOLOGY

This section is structured into six components, each contributing to the overall understanding
and implementation of the project. The components include the conceptual framework, materials
used, Arduino flow chart, system design, component diagram, and evaluation method. Together,
these components provide a comprehensive and systematic approach to addressing the project's
objectives and goals.

Conceptual Framework
:
 Figure 1. Conceptual framework of the study

This table represents the various components and steps involved in the process of
creating a capacitive sugar moisture detection device. The first step is for research for capacitive
sensors, it involves gathering information, studying the principles, and understanding the
applications of capacitive sensors for the intended project. Sugar, his input refers to the specific
material of interest, which is sugar in this case. It indicates that the project involves measuring or
detecting something related to the moisture content in sugar samples. Arduino software, This
input implies the requirement of the Arduino software. Arduino software is a development
environment used for writing, compiling, and uploading code to Arduino boards. It is likely needed
for programming the microcontroller. Microcontroller, This input indicates the necessity of a
microcontroller, such as an Arduino board. A microcontroller is a small computer on a single
integrated circuit, often used for controlling and managing electronic devices. It is a crucial
component for the project and is likely to be programmed to read and process data from the
capacitive sensor. For the process, it includes Project plan and design and Arduino programming.
Project plan and design suggests the need to create a comprehensive plan and design for the
capacitive sugar moisture detection device. Arduino programming refers to the programming of a
microcontroller, such as an Arduino board, which is a key component of the device. For the output
process, this output represents the successful completion of the project, indicating that the device
has been designed, constructed, and assembled. The fabricated device is specifically tailored to
detect and measure the moisture content in sugar samples using capacitive sensing technology.
This output signifies the tangible outcome of the project, providing a functional tool for accurately
:
 measuring the moisture levels in sugar. Lastly, is the outcome. This outcome refers to the result of
the project, indicating that after the completion of the project, a functional measuring device will be
accessible. This device is specifically designed to measure and quantify the moisture content in
sugar samples. The outcome implies that the project aims to provide a practical solution for
accurately assessing the moisture levels in sugar, which can be beneficial for various applications
such as food production, quality control, or research purposes. Overall, the table provides a
structured overview of the inputs, processes, outputs, and outcomes involved in the project,
helping to clarify the key components and goals of the endeavor.

Materials
In this study will use various materials to be able to conduct this study Sugar, Capacitive
Sensor, Microcontroller, and other components. Those materials and components are crucial in
creating the Capacitive Sugar Sensor Detection Device.

Table 1. Materials and Specifications

Materials Specifications
Capacitive Moisture Sensor ● 3.3 ~ 5.0 VDC
● 40 x 20 x 13mm
● With pin header
Micro controller ● Arduino Uno R3
● ATmega328P

Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) ● 16 x 2

● With pin header
AC/DC Adaptor ● Input: AC 100-240 V
50/60 Hz
● Output: DC 5V (3A)
Container ● 250 mmx150 mm (LxW)
● Plastic

Arduino Flow Chart

:
 Figure 2. Arduino flow for Capacitive Sugar Sensor Detection Device

The figure shows the flow chart for the arduino program to be run on the Capacitive Sugar
Moisture Detection Device. The inputs include the LCD and Capacitive Moisture Sensor, These
components are required to measure the moisture content of sugar. After that, the next step
involves using the capacitive moisture sensor to measure the moisture levels present in the sugar
sample. The sensor detects the capacitance changes caused by the moisture content and
converts them into electrical signals. Once the moisture of the sugar sample is measured, the
result or reading is displayed on the LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). The LCD provides a visual
output, allowing users to see the measured moisture content of the sugar.
:
 output, allowing users to see the measured moisture content of the sugar.

Design of the Capacitive Sugar Moisture Detection Device

Figure 3. Design of Capacitive Sugar Moisture Detection Device

Figure 2 shows the design and concept of Capacitive Sugar Moisture Detection Device. Main
components include the arduino uno (microcontroller), capacitive sensor, a 250 mm x 150 mm
(LxW) container, Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), and power source. The capacitive sensor
measures the moisture content in the sugar by emitting an electrical field and measuring
capacitance changes caused by the changes in the dielectric. In arduino uno, it governs the
moisture detection using the program uploaded using software while LCD was used to
show the measured moisture content for sugar. Moreover, the container has storage to
place the sugar subjected to testing and evaluation of moisture content. The power source
is an AC/DC adapter connected powering the microcontroller and capacitive sensor.
:
 Figure 4. 3D design of Capacitive Sugar Moisture Detection Device

The potential configuration and design of the device are shown in Figure 3. The images
above present various viewpoints on the device's potential design.

Diagram of the Components

Figure 5. Diagram components of Capacitive Sugar Moisture Detection Device

This figure shows the diagram components of Capacitive Sugar Moisture Detection
Device. The diagram components of a Capacitive Sugar Moisture Detection Device typically
includes an Arduino board, a capacitive moisture sensor, sugar samples, and an LCD. Using the
Arduino board, it is responsible for controlling the operations of the moisture detection system.
:
 Arduino board, it is responsible for controlling the operations of the moisture detection system.
The board receives signals from the capacitive moisture sensor, processes the data, and displays
the results on the LCD. For the capacitive moisture sensor, this sensor is specifically designed to
measure the moisture content in substances such as sugar. It works based on the principle of
capacitance, where changes in moisture levels result in varying capacitance values. The sensor
detects these capacitance changes, converts them into electrical signals, and sends the data to
the Arduino board for processing. The sugar samples are the substances being tested for their
moisture content. These samples are placed in contact with the capacitive moisture sensor, which
measures the moisture levels present in the sugar. The LCD is used to display the results or
measurements obtained from the capacitive moisture sensor. It provides a visual output, allowing
users to easily read and interpret the moisture content of the sugar samples. The Arduino board
processes the data from the sensor and sends the corresponding information to the LCD for
display. This configuration allows for accurate and convenient measurement of the moisture
content in sugar.

Method of Evaluation
The evaluation of a Capacitive Sugar Moisture Detection Device can be performed through
various methods. Here are some common approaches for evaluating the device:
1. Calibration: The device can be calibrated using known moisture content standards or
reference samples. By comparing the readings of the device with the actual moisture content
of these samples, you can assess the accuracy and reliability of the device's measurements.
2. Comparative Analysis: Compare the measurements obtained from the capacitive sugar
moisture detection device with measurements obtained using other established methods or
devices for moisture detection in sugar. This allows you to assess the device's performance
and determine its level of agreement with existing techniques.
3. Reproducibility and Precision: Conduct repeated measurements on the same sugar
samples using the capacitive sensor device. Evaluate the consistency and reproducibility of
the readings obtained to determine the precision of the device.
4. Statistical Analysis: Perform statistical analysis on the data obtained from the device, such
as calculating the mean, standard deviation, and confidence intervals. This provides insights
into the device's measurement accuracy, precision, and reliability.
5. Field Testing: Assess the device's performance in real-world conditions by testing it on a
variety of sugar samples with different moisture levels. Compare the device's measurements
with the expected values or reference methods to evaluate its performance in practical
applications.
6. User Feedback and Validation: Seek feedback from users or experts who have experience
with moisture detection devices. Their observations and assessments can provide valuable
insights into the device's usability, reliability, and overall performance.
:
 REFERENCES

Angkawisittpan, N., and Mansari, T. (2012). Determination of Sugar Content in Sugar Solutions
using Interdigital Capacitor Sensor. Retrieved from:
https://www.measurement.sk/2012/Angkawisittpan.pdf
Coupal, E., Farkhani, R., Kerr, A., Punja, H. (2021). Effect of Moisture Content on The Melting
Points of Different Sugar Types. Retrieved from:
https://ojs.library.ubc.ca/index.php/expedition/article/view/196092#:~:text=We%20
proposed%20that%20sugar%20with,coconut%2C%20and%20then%20white%20sugar.
Ergun, Roja & Lietha, R & Hartel, R. (2010). Moisture and Shelf Life in Sugar Confections. Critical
reviews in food science and nutrition. 50. 162-92. 10.1080/10408390802248833. Retrieved
from:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/41175416_Moisture_and Shelf_Life_in_Sugar_Co
nfections
IFT. (2019). Sugars: A Scientific Overview. Retrieved from: https://www.ift.org/career-
development/learn-about-food-science/food-facts/food-facts-food-ingredients-and-
additives/sugars-a-scientific-overview
Kumhala, F., Prosek, V., & Kroulik, M. (2010). Capacitive sensor for chopped maize throughput
measurement. Computers and Electronics in Agriculture, 70(1), 234–238.
doi:10.1016/j.compag.2009.10.011
Lev, J., Křepčík, V., Prošek, V., & Kumhála, F. (2017). Capacitive throughput sensor for plant
materials – Effects of frequency and moisture content. Computers and Electronics in
Agriculture, 133, 22–29. doi:10.1016/j.compag.2016.12.014
M. J. W. Schubert et al., "Capacitive sensor technology for soil moisture monitoring networks,"
2017 24th IEEE International Conference on Electronics, Circuits and Systems (ICECS),
Batumi, Georgia, 2017, pp. 190-193, doi: 10.1109/ICECS.2017.8292018.
McIntosh, R.B. & Casada, M.E. (2008). Fringing Field Capacitance Sensor for Measuring the
Moisture Content of Agricultural Commodities. Retrieved from:
https://www.ars.usda.gov/ARSUserFiles/30200525/392FringingFieldcapacitancesensor.pdf
Okasha AM, Ibrahim HG, Elmetwalli AH, Khedher KM, Yaseen ZM, Elsayed S. Designing Low-
Cost Capacitive-Based Soil Moisture Sensor and Smart Monitoring Unit Operated by Solar
Cells for Greenhouse Irrigation Management. Sensors (Basel). 2021 Aug 9;21(16):5387.
doi: 10.3390/s21165387. PMID: 34450826; PMCID: PMC8399650.
Taghinezhad, J., Alimardani, R., & Jafari, A. (2012). Development of a Capacitive Sensing Device
for Prediction of Water Content in Sugarcanes Stalks. Retrieved from:
http://article.nadiapub.com/IJAST/vol44/6.pdf
:
 http://article.nadiapub.com/IJAST/vol44/6.pdf
: