Scientists from the Research and Transfer Centre (FTZ e.V.) and the West Saxon University of Applied Sciences Zwickau (WHZ) are working with the Dörnthal oil mill, the Institute for Environmental Analysis (IfU) and COVAC Elektro und Automation GmbH on a mobile measuring system for the real-time detection of hydrogen cyanide concentrations in food production. The technology is intended to help manufacturers comply with new EU limits and avoid expensive laboratory tests.

Foods such as flaxseed, bitter almonds, and apricot kernels contain natural cyanogenic glycosides, which can release hydrogen cyanide. When flaxseed is processed, for example by grinding, pressing or coming into contact with water, small quantities are produced that must be removed from the press cake. The finished linseed oil remains unaffected. New EU requirements make the production of food and feed considerably more difficult.

The cyber-physical system monitors hydrogen cyanide levels in flaxseed, air and water directly during operation. It detects exceedances at an early stage, reduces costs and increases safety. The innovation replaces time-consuming sample analyses in external laboratories and is suitable for other mills with cyanogenic raw materials.

Optical process and electronics from Zwickau

The WHZ and the FTZ are building a robust sensor system that signals limit values in real time. The WHZ is developing an optical measurement method based on multipass absorption spectroscopy with tunable laser diodes that precisely detects concentrations in air and water. The FTZ takes care of the electronics and software, including control of the diodes, detector connection and evaluation of concrete values.

Partners ensure practical relevance

The Dörnthal oil mill supplies samples and analyzes processing processes that influence the hydrogen cyanide release. The IfU creates metrological solutions for preliminary investigations. COVAC develops control electronics, software and hardware for integration into production lines.

Focus on EU limit values

The EU requires maximum levels of hydrogen cyanide to ensure consumer safety. For flaxseeds for human consumption, a limit of 150 mg/kg applies. In the feed industry, certifications such as GMP+ are based on values of up to 350 mg/kg for linseed cakes. These rules ensure its use in nutrition and animal feed.

Project Cyber-Safe

The project “Cyber-physical system for the inline recording of hydrogen cyanide as an essential component of hydrogen cyanide in the food industry” (Cyber-Safe) will run from 1 July 2025 to 31 December 2027. It is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy in the ZIM programme under the identifier KK5016610DF4.

The Optical Technologies working group at the Leupold Institute for Applied Sciences at the WHZ solves metrological problems in industry, health and the environment. Students are closely involved through internships, auxiliary activities and theses.

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