Aplicação aérea resulta em ganho produtivo em relação a aplicação terrestre na soja

Abstract

Grain production plays a significant role in the economy and development of the country's agricultural sector, with a particular emphasis on soybeans. In order to achieve greater productivity and reduce production costs, the agricultural sector has embraced new technological alternatives, including Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) – also known as drones. These aircraft play a crucial role in applying pesticides and collecting images of crops. Using these aircraft for spraying aims to effectively and sustainably control pathogens, weeds, and insect pests in crops effectively and sustainably. Precision in application at specific points results in the rational use of pesticides. In this study, the aim was to compare terrestrial (tractor boom spraying) and aerial (RPA) applications to ascertain which of these operations yielded productive gains in soybean crop. This was achieved by monitoring operations using Statistical Quality Control (CEQ) and proximal remote sensing. The experiment was conducted in the experimental areas of the Federal Technological University of Paraná (UTFPR), Santa Helena Campus, Paraná State. The experimental design was based on the basic premises of CEQ, comprising 48 sample points for evaluating productivity and 16 sample points for the other indicators in each application, totaling 96 points for productivity and 32 points for the other indicators. Quality indicators included biophysical haracteristics of the crop (plant height, canopy length, and productivity) and vegetation indices (NDVI – Normalized Difference Vegetation Index and NDRE - Normalized Difference Red Edge Index). The statistical analyses included descriptive analyses and CEQ tools, such as individual value control charts, and cause and effect diagrams. It was concluded that RPAs provided more punctual and precise application of products, ensuring excellent crop protection. Thus, a significant increase in productivity was observed with aerial application compared to terrestrial application