Portable and Affordable Paper-based Sensor Platform for Wine Quality Control (2026-2027)
Abstract
This project aims to develop a simple and affordable tool that can rapidly measure levels of a common preservative ¿ sulphur dioxide ¿ used in winemaking. Sulphur dioxide helps keep wine fresh and prevents spoilage, but too much can affect taste, breach regulatory safety requirements, and deter customers who prefer natural or additive-free products. Currently, sulphur dioxide testing requires sending wine samples to a laboratory, making the process both time-consuming and expensive. This project will create a paper-based test strip that changes colour when it detects this preservative in wine, delivering results within one minute. The tool will be easy to use onsite by winemakers, with results read directly on a smartphone. The project entrepreneurs at UQ, working with industry experts at Winechek, will improve the tool¿TM)s accuracy, reliability, and shelf-life, and trial it in real winery settings. If successful, this tool will help winemakers monitor preservative levels quickly and
