Multi-spectral NIR-LED-Based Spectrometer Detects Calcium Carbide in Mango Fruit

In the Philippines, chunks of calcium carbide are usually used as ripening agent for mango samples. However, the acetylene gas produce during ripening agent can cause harm to human health. Likewise, considering the economic standing of the country, development of low cost and portable instruments are encouraged. To address these issues, a multi-spectral near infrared light emitting diode-based spectrometer was developed. The aim of this study is to determine the calcium carbide residue detection capability using the developed spectrometer prototype. Partial least square regression and linear discriminant analysis showed 81% calcium carbide residue prediction capability and 88.9% correct classification, respectively. Therefore, the multispectral near infrared light emitting diode-based spectrometer prototype has the potential to detect calcium carbide chemical residue in mango fruit non-destructively.