Investigation of mechanisms involved in germination enhancement of wheat (Triticum aestivum) by cold plasma: Effects on seed surface chemistry and characteristics

Agata Los, Dana Ziuzina, Daniela Boehm, Patrick J. Cullen, Paula Bourke

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    Abstract

    Recent reports indicate that atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) treatment of seeds can enhance their germination, however, the mechanisms of action are not yet entirely clear. In the present work, we report on the effects of plasma treatment on wheat seed germination and seedling growth. Additionally, changes in the surface chemistry and characteristics of the wheat seeds exposed to plasma were investigated. Treatments of 30–60 s significantly enhanced the germination rate and showed positive effects on seedling growth. ACP resulted in changes of seed surface and chemical characteristics including water uptake and contact angle values. Changes in seed pH and total titratable acidity, as well as nitrites, nitrates, and malondialdehyde concentrations were also recorded.

    Original languageEnglish
    Article number1800148
    JournalPlasma Processes and Polymers
    Volume16
    Issue number4
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Apr 2019

    Keywords

    • cold plasma
    • dielectric barrier discharges (DBD)
    • food quality
    • seed germination
    • wheat seeds

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