Reference: APN006
Date: February 9, 2016
Nijmegen, The Netherlands – February 9, 2016.
Ampleon today announced that it has entered into a collaborative research 
project with the HAS University of Applied Sciences in Den Bosch, The Netherlands into the use of full spectrum lighting for horticultural applications. In addition the project will validate and summarize current research and investigations that are available.
Lighting plays an increasing role in horticulture, both for urban farming, for cultivation without daylight, and increasingly also in greenhouses. Until now the focus has mainly been on higher production through the use of light. However, apart from the focus on crop yield there has not yet been any detailed research and investigations into the effects that light spectrum has on crop growth, quality, taste and seed production. The research project will study the growth of a variety of plants under four different light sources and will record six attributes of plant growth. This will include how the plant forms and how it is cultivated, for example, whether it becomes a more compact crop. Plant quality will be analysed including sugar content, acidity, firmness and shelf life. Investigation into the plant roots will also be conducted since a better root system leads to better crop growth. For many crops, the flowers and fruits are key aspects of achieving not only a better crop but a more controllable yield so monitoring this as part of the cultivation process will also take place.
Today there are a number of different lighting technologies used for horticulture 
applications such as high-pressure sodium (SON-T) and LED. However, light emitting plasma (LEP) lamps, driven by an RF power source, provide a full spectrum of light and is believed to offer much better value to growers.
J. den Besten, Senior Lecturer New Cultivation Systems, HAS University of Applied Sciences, comments, "This research gives us a unique opportunity to conduct a broad exploration of the opportunities and possibilities of illuminating a greenhouse with full spectrum lighting. The study provides a basis for a route whereby we not only use light for increased production but look at the overall value to the grower."
Ampleon are sponsoring a 20 week research program that started in late 2015 based in the University’s newly opened glasshouses and research facilities. The research will investigate the different aspects of growing a variety of crops under full spectrum LEP lights together with making comparisons against using LED, High Pressure Sodium SON-T, ceramic discharge metal-halide (CDM) lighting.
Rob Hoeben, Vice President & Business Unit Manager Multi Market & RF Energy, Ampleon says, “We are delighted to be collaborating with HAS University of Applied Sciences on what we believe to be the first comprehensive research project into growing crops under full spectrum lighting. The use of our RF power semiconductors for full spectrum plasma lighting is an exciting new area for us and we look forward to receiving the results during early 2016.”
+++Ends
Photo caption – HAS University of Applied Science and Ampleon sign agreement on Full Spectrum lighting research for Horticulture.
people left to right:
- Janneke Grit, Lecturer New Cultivation Systems at HAS University of Applied Sciences
- Rob Hoeben, Vice President BU Manager Multi Market & RF Energy at Ampleon
- Jasper den Besten, Professor New Cultivation Systems at HAS University of Applied Sciences
- Ard van Roij, Senior Marketing Manager RF Energy at Ampleon
For further information and reader enquiries:
Natascha Jellema, Marketing Communication Manager
Ampleon Netherlands B.V., Halfgeleiderweg 8, 6534 AV Nijmegen, The Netherlands
Tel: +31 6 208 14 771,
Email: natascha.jellema@ampleon.com,
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Robert Huntley, Director Publitek Limited,
Tel: +44 1225 470000,
Email: robert.huntley@publitek.com,
About Ampleon:
Created in 2015, Ampleon is shaped by 50 years of RF power leadership. Recently being spunoff from NXP Semiconductors, the company is set-out to exploit the full potential of data and energy transfer in RF. Ampleon has more than 1250 employees worldwide, dedicated to creating optimal value for customers. Its innovative, yet consistent portfolio offers products and solutions for a wide range of applications, such as cellular base stations, radio/TV/broadcasting, radar, air traffic control, cooking, lighting, industrial lasers and medical. For details on the leading global partner in RF Power, visit www.ampleon.com
About HAS University of Applied Sciences
HAS University of Applied Sciences is the leading educational institution and centre of expertise in the south of the Netherlands for the agro, food and environment sectors. From its two locations in Den Bosch and Venlo, this medium-sized university is focused around the dynamic triangle of students, lecturers and business. Based on our core values of dedication, entrepreneurship and confidence, HAS focuses on the three key activities: education, knowledge transfer and knowledge development.
HAS University of Applied Sciences has 3,000 fulltime students on Dutch and English bachelor degree programmes. A further 300 participants take part in a variety of courses via HAS Training and Consultancy. The institution is also active in the fields of research and consultancy. There are 450 employees working at the HAS. We believe that by continuously stimulating and developing the talents of our students and staff, we are able to make a substantial contribution to safeguarding a strong agro-food sector and the environment.
Dutch bachelor degree programmes
Business Administration & Agribusiness, Animal Husbandry & Animal Care, Food Design & Innovation, FreshFood & Innovation, Geo Media & Design, Management of the Living Environment, Environmental Studies, Nature, Leisure & Business (from September 2016), Applied Biology, Horticulture & Business Management, and Food Technology.
English bachelor degree programmes
International Farm Management, International Food & Agribusiness, and Horticulture & Business Management. www.has.nl/en