Microcontroller-based pulse signal controller development for compact high voltage pulse generator: practical development in food treatment technology

Abstract

The momentum of pulsed electric field (PEF) in maintaining food quality has increased due to its ability to treat food without the use of thermal elements. To achieve this, high pulse voltage must be used in conjunction with the pulse signal controller. Therefore, this paper presents the development of advanced pulse signal controllers using Arduino Uno. It can produce an adjustable pulse width from 63 ns (min) to 4 ms (max) along with an adjustable gap between pulses from 1 µs (min) to 10 s (max). A laboratory experiment was performed on a NaCl solution to record its performance in producing the desired pulse attribute. The results show that the pulse signal controller successfully delivers the intended pulse. A clean 4.25 A square pulse electric current was recorded in the absence of abnormal effects. This proves that the proposed method works as expected and also proves the concept presented. Practical applications: The practical application of this research is more to the development of advanced electroporators that can meet current demand. It can produce pulses as low as 63 ns to 4 ms (maximum). By using the microcontroller available in the local market, it can reduce development costs while providing a reliable pulse. In addition, the pulse generated is also TTL and CMOS compatible and makes it useful for driving any digital switching device such as MOSFET and IGBT. Extensive applications are not limited to PEF, but also other pulse applications. Therefore, this study is very worthwhile to be implemented and commercialized besides being able to produce PEF treatment technology that is cheap, reliable, and robust.