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Investigation of mechanisms involved in germination enhancement of wheat ( Triticum aestivum ) by cold plasma: Effects on seed surface chemistry and characteristics
Author(s) -
Los Agata,
Ziuzina Dana,
Boehm Daniela,
Cullen Patrick J.,
Bourke Paula
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
plasma processes and polymers
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.644
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1612-8869
pISSN - 1612-8850
DOI - 10.1002/ppap.201800148
Subject(s) - germination , seedling , chemistry , malondialdehyde , titratable acid , agronomy , atmospheric pressure plasma , horticulture , plasma , biology , food science , biochemistry , antioxidant , physics , quantum mechanics
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.