UTM unveils a miniature baggage scanner adapted to non-destructively assess durian quality, aiming to reduce export rejections and boost grower confidence.
JOHOR BAHRU: Universiti Teknologi Malaysia has developed a new technology to accurately assess the quality of durians without damaging the fruit.
The miniature baggage scanner uses carbon nanotube-based X-ray technology to examine the fruit’s internal structure.
UTM vice-chancellor Prof Dr Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim said the innovation aims to reduce the risk of export rejections, particularly for the Chinese market.
“There are certain standards that must be met when exporting durians to China, and sometimes the fruit is rejected because it does not meet the required specifications,” he said.
He added the scanner, developed with industry partner Billion Prima Sdn Bhd, is in its final commercialisation stage.
The technology was adapted from airport security systems and can produce a complete 3D image in about 30 seconds.
It uses two levels of X-ray energy to clearly distinguish the flesh, seed count, and air pockets inside the durian.
Ongoing research will enable the scanner to identify the specific variety of durian being scanned.
Durian grower Abd Hadi Ahmad Sani said the technology helps prevent losses and boosts grower confidence for international markets.
“With this technology, we can know in advance whether our durians are damaged or of good quality,” said the Pontian farm operator.
The product will be presented to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security for official recognition.
