Nanosensors from Logistics and Supply Chain Perspective: A Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Nanosensors are one of the most recent technologies obtained from the nanoworld. They have enhanced properties with potential applications in a wide spectrum of sectors. They exhibit exceptional properties in temperature monitoring, hazardous gas and vapor detection, humidity detection, as well as pathogens, toxins, and chemical contaminant detection. Among various nanosensor applications, one of the most recent usages of nanosensor technology is in logistics and supply chain management (SCM). Aim: This study aims at investigating the potential of nanosensor technology from logistics & SCM perspective, and specifically questions how can this technology contribute to food supply chains. Method: A systematic comprehensive literature review was conducted with the keywords: nanosensors & logistics, nanosensors & supply chain, nanosensors & smart packaging, and nanosensors & food logistics for the date range 2001-2022, covering a broad set of references. Findings revealed that nanosensors have significant potential in providing smart packaging, and improving traceability and visibility across all the logistics and SCM processes including end-to-end transportation and storage activities Result: Hybrids of different types of nanosensors with the existing material identification systems provide new levels of traceability and visibility in SCM, enabling accurate tracking of a variety of parameters. The study has shown that the intersection of nanotechnology and logistics & SCM domains is still immature. Conclusion: This intersection is especially critical for food supply chains for meeting their special traceability requirements, and for serving food safety and organic food traceability across all stages of logistics.