An Efficient Technique for Automation of The NFT (Nutrient Film Technique) Hydroponic System Using Arduino

Abstract

Hydroponic Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) is most widely applied on a home and industrial scale. One of the drawbacks of the NFT hydroponic system is that it is very dependent on electricity for 24 hours to power the water pump. The basic principle of the NFT hydroponic system is to flow nutrients to plant roots with a shallow and circulating nutrient layer so that plants get enough water, nutrients, and oxygen.  Therefore, the role of the water pump in the hydroponic NFT system is crucial. This research makes the automation of the NFT hydroponic system more efficient using Arduino.    There are two main parts to this automation system: the control of pH levels and nutrient distribution.  The pH sensor is used to control the pH level of nutrients, and the ultrasonic sensor is used for nutrient distribution. Efficiency is emphasized more on the distribution of nutrients because it absorbs more electrical energy. The method used is to flow the nutrients in the reservoir to a storage tank that is located higher than the plant using a water pump with a large discharge. Nutrients are transported to each plant using the force of gravity.  The nutrient volume is controlled automatically using an ultrasonic sensor in the storage tank. The water pump is only activated by the ultrasonic sensor readings on the storage tank. So that the need for electricity to turn on the water pump is reduced, based on tests carried out on the use of a 220-volt AC / 50 Hz / 125-watt water pump and the use of a 250-liter nutrient storage tank, it can be concluded that the system that has been created can save 70% of electricity consumption.