Salvatore Privitera
Dottorando
Dottorato in Agricultural, Food and Environmental Science - XXXVII CicloTutor: Giuseppe Ezio Manetto
Sezione di appartenenza: Meccanica e Meccanizzazione
- 2022-2025: PhD course in Agricultural, Food and Environmental Science, University of Catania (Cycle XXXVII). Research project: "Nozzle Spray Quality and Spray Deposition in Agricultural Treatments". The general objective of the research project is to assess the nozzle spray quality and deposit using mainly techniques based on Digital Image Analysis (DIA). The methodological approach of the research is based on the use of a low-cost laboratory system for nozzle spray analysis under realistic conditions. The use of the test bench will allow to study and deepen the correlation between spray deposit and surface coverage, so ensuring, in effective pesticide distributions, the proper amount of active substance on the target and the increase the probability of contact between pest and pesticide.
- 2018-2020: Master’s Degree in Agricultural Science and Technology (LM-69), University of Catania; supervisor Prof. Emanuele Cerruto. Title of degree thesis: “Il controllo funzionale delle macchine irroratrici in Sicilia”. Final mark: 110/110 and praise.
- 2015-2018: Bachelor’s Degree in Land Protection and Landscape Planning (L-21), University of Catania; supervisor Prof.ssa Sabina Iole Giuseppina Failla. Title of degree thesis: “Impianti a solare termico: Innovazioni e Prospettive”. Final mark: 106/110.
- 2015: High School Graduation, Liceo scientifico“Galileo Ferraris”, San Giovanni La Punta (CT). Final mark 82/100.
The research activity is mainly focused on the sustainable distribution of Plant Protection Products (PPPs), aiming to enhance the effectiveness of the agricultural treatments (spray coverage and foliar deposition), reduce the environmental pollution (spray drift, run-off) and minimize the operator's risk (ingestion, inhalation and dermal exposure).
In particular, the research activities regarded:
- Characterization of droplet size distribution of agricultural sprays through measurements conducted in laboratory using a low-cost test bench purposely constructed and designed and other image processing (Shadowgraphy) and laser-based instruments (Laser Diffraction method and Phase Doppler Particle Analyzer - PDPA).
- Assessment and study of surface coverage (%) on artificial collectors (Water Sensitive Papers), droplet density (number of stains per square centimeter), and spray deposition on natural targets (orange and olive leaves).
- Evaluation of spray drift potential reduction under controlled environmental conditions, using a wind tunnel capable of generating artificial wind and following the guidelines of ISO 22856:2018 standard.
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