Innovative PCM Heat Storage Device for Control of Varroa Mites in Beehives (BeeSave)

The proposed project aims to develop an innovative BeeSave device to kill Varroa mites in beehives. The device uses a phase change material (PCM) pack. Research shows that Varroa mites can be killed during all development stages if they are exposed to temperatures ranging between 40°C to 47°C for ~ 150 minutes. These temperatures are safely tolerated by honey bee brood and adults and do not damage the honeycomb, which will be supplied by the integrated PCM pack installed in the beehives. The innovative system is compact, robust and low cost and does not require electricity. The technology is highly portable and simple to use, as heat is released by triggering the metal disk installed inside the device.