Russian scientists are developing electrical technologies to increase plant productivity, the press service reports. Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation. Their use under optimal conditions experimentally gives up to 20% yield increase. Scientists also note the benefits of electrophysical impact on seeds and tubers before planting: if the technology is used correctly, harmful fungi and bacteria living on them are destroyed. Scientific work is carried out on the basis of the Moscow Power Engineering Institute (MPEI).
The principle of electrical action is that, by applying the required voltage level to the electrodes, it is possible to provide a dosed effect on the seeds through a small volume of air. The latter receive a short stress, which mobilizes internal defense mechanisms, thereby accelerating the growth and development of the plant and, as a result, increasing yields.
The use of modern electrical technologies can become an alternative to traditional chemical plant protection.
“As part of the study at the department, we are already seeing how our electrical technologies can improve not only growth characteristics, but also frost resistance of wheat, which is also very important for the formation of a full-fledged crop, especially in difficult climatic conditions,” says the head of the department of high voltage engineering and electrophysics MPEI Alexander Temnikov.
The unequivocal advantage of electrical technologies is that their “executive” mechanism is ordinary air. That is, such processing does not require additional consumables, except for the electrical energy itself. Plus, upon completion of seed treatment, the air returns to its original state and does not harm the environment.
“The domestic market of plant protection chemicals has been dependent on exports in recent years by an average of 35%. Scientists are looking for new active formulations, but even with long-used agents, such as tebuconazole, the degree of environmental hazard to nature and humans is still unclear. Therefore, from the point of view of environmental friendliness of processes, the development of electrical technologies to increase the protective properties of plants and increase yields has great advantages,” notes Alexander Lazukin, chief developer.
NRU MPEI is a participant of the federal program of the Russian Ministry of Education and Science "Priority 2030". Research in the field of development and application of modern electrical technologies is part of the university's strategic project. Potential consumers of the new technology may be agricultural enterprises and farms, as well as holdings specializing in the cultivation and sale of seeds. The research is planned to be completed by 2025.