Controlled Atmosphere Technology for Fruit Storage at Storex

Objective

The goal was to implement a system that:

• Prolongs shelf life of fruit through precise climate control
• Monitors key parameters in real time: O₂, CO₂, ethylene, and relative humidity
• Provides an independent, reliable data source for ongoing quality assurance
• Minimises spoilage and enhances storage efficiency

Solution by Storex

Pedak supplied Storex NSense humidity and temperature sensors to set up a complete Controlled Atmosphere solution, including:

• Nitrogen Generators: Reduce oxygen levels (~16%) to prevent fire risks in large-scale storage halls
• Gas Analysers: Continuous monitoring and adjustment of O₂, CO₂, and ethylene levels
• Humidity Control Units: Actively regulate relative humidity using data from precision sensors
• NSense Sensors by Novasina: Specialised high-accuracy humidity and temperature sensors, proven to perform reliably even in the high-humidity environments typical of fruit storage

The NSense sensors are used to control and verify relative humidity levels with high precision. Their robustness and resistance to condensation make them ideal for long-term use in Storex facilities.

Advantages of the NSense Sensor (Novasina)

• Designed for high humidity: Maintains accuracy even in saturated conditions
• Long-term stability: No drift or signal degradation over time
• Digital output & easy integration: Compatible with Storex’s control systems
• Swiss precision: Trusted for use in critical environments such as food storage and laboratories

Case Example

During a field evaluation in Aarhus, Denmark, Storex tested 24 humidity sensors from various suppliers. The NSense sensor from Novasina, provided by Pedak, outperformed competitors in terms of:

• Sensor stability under humid conditions
• Accuracy and repeatability
• Long-term reliability, making it the sensor of choice for Storex moving forward

Results & Benefits for Storex

• Optimised climate control in storage chambers
• Better preservation of fruit quality and freshness
• Lower spoilage rates, resulting in significant cost savings
• Reliable data for process monitoring and optimisation
• Improved safety, due to integrated fire prevention via oxygen control

Future Outlook

Storex and Pedak are working together to further enhance performance and efficiency, with ongoing developments including:

• Expanding sensor networks
• Optimising installation and maintenance procedures
• Exploring additional use cases in other agricultural storage environments

Conclusion

Pedak’s NSense humidity sensors by Novasina, in combination with Storex’s controlled atmosphere systems, has proven to be a robust and high-performance solution for modern fruit storage. The result: longer shelf life, reduced losses, and greater control over storage quality.