Grants and Contributions:

Title:

Food Production in Space: 3D-Printed Capillary Hydroponics with Multi-Ion Organic Electrochemical Transistor Sensing for Detecting Faults and Optimizing Growth

Agreement Number:

25FAYOB23

Agreement Value:

$291,000.00

Agreement Date:

Feb 20, 2026 - Mar 31, 2029

Description:

The project aims to improve food production in space by developing a compact, low-power “root-zone lab” that uses engineered capillarity instead of gravity-dependent plumbing for water and nutrient delivery. By leveraging additive manufacturing, all capillary features are integrated into a single efficient part, reducing mass, volume, leaks, and assembly complexity. Real-time monitoring of nutrient balance and root zone stress is achieved through printed organic electrochemical transistor (OECT) based sensors. The project involves bench and clinostat testing of fluidics, staged biology experiments, and comparison with traditional pumped systems to optimize plant outcomes. The main deliverables are a flight-relevant, 3D-printable module with replaceable sensors, offering a reliable solution for space missions and a plug-in, cost-effective monitoring system for terrestrial applications. Additionally, the initiative will provide multidisciplinary training in materials engineering and plant stress biology for six trainees.

Organization:

Canadian Space Agency

Expected Results:

The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research
and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the future.

Location:

Toronto, Ontario, CA M3J 1P3

Reference Number:

003-2025-2026-Q4-00024

Agreement Type:

Grant

Report Type:

Grants and Contributions

Recipient Type:

Academia

Additional Information:

The amount allocated covers more than one fiscal year

Recipient's Legal Name:

York University

Program:

Class Grant and Contribution Program to Support Research, Awareness and Learning in Space Science and Technology

Program Purpose:

This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.

The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.