Herbicide spraying and weed identification using drone technology in modern farms: A comprehensive review

Abstract

In the field of advanced agriculture, drones have emerged as cutting-edge aerial spraying technology. This innovative approach offers enhanced flexibility and a more systematic approach compared to traditional methods, resulting in a remarkable 60-fold increase in efficiency. Identifying weed patches can be accomplished by utilizing image acquisition with drones for subsequent processing and spraying. An additional benefit of spraying is the “downwash” effect generated by the rotors, resulting in enhanced deposition on the intended target. It is important to assess specific application techniques in order to enhance the efficiency of weed control using drones. This review provides an overview of the current scientific research on the use of camera-equipped drones for weed detection and the subsequent application of herbicides for weed control. Research on the comparison of sprayers and their effectiveness in spraying has shown that this technology has the capability to replace applications carried out mainly with knapsack sprayers in order to reduce occupational hazards. There are various factors that can affect the efficiency of this particular method of aerial spraying. These include the altitude and speed at which the spraying is conducted, as well as meteorological conditions, the rate at which the solution is applied, the characteristics of the droplet producer, and the properties of the spray solution. Overcoming various challenges is crucial for the successful implementation of this new technology. Skilled experts are required to address formulation and labeling details, as well as guidelines. Additionally, understanding the aerodynamic effect in droplets is essential for its effectiveness.

Keywords

• Drones
• Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) applications
• Weeds
• Herbicides
• Spraying