WIR! – Physics for Food
Physics for Seeds - Plasma treatment for seed hygiene and increasing germination capacity and sprouting power
Duration from 7.1.2020 - 31.10.2023, funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) under the funding code (FKZ) 03WIR2805A.
The use of agricultural chemicals (herbicides, pesticides, fungicides) is a prerequisite for the high-yield cultivation of crops and thus a comprehensive supply of affordable food. However, the associated environmental impact and possible risks for consumers are viewed with concern. As the associated options for treating seeds with fungicides are becoming increasingly limited, the question of alternative methods to protect the seeds being sown is being raised. As part of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research's "Change through innovation in the region" initiative, the "Physics for Food" project has therefore set itself the task of investigating possible alternatives to chemical processes using physical methods. In various lead projects, possibilities for seed treatment, for the promotion of plant growth and health, as well as in the processing of crops and fodder plants are being investigated. (Further information on the overall project and the individual lead projects can be found here: physicsforfood.org
The lead project "Physics for Seeds", led by the INP, directly addresses the objectives of the overall project by investigating direct plasma treatments as well as plasma-treated air for seed processing. The aim is to investigate how phytopathogenic seed-borne pathogens can be reduced while maintaining seed vitality, especially in barley, rapeseed and lupin. An alternative to chemical dressing is thus being pursued. Results are also being pursued that suggest an increase in the germination capacity and vigor of the seeds through plasma treatment. Both are crucial for rapid and healthy field emergence, which is ultimately reflected in yields. In this context, symbioses of the treatment with the bacteria that adhere to the seeds and promote plant growth are also considered. In addition to laboratory trials, the treated seeds are also sown explicitly in field trials. Partners from the Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Ceravis AG, NPZ Innovation GmbH and Saatzucht Bauer GmbH & Co. KG together. In addition, a close cooperation with the lead project sub-project "WIR! - Physics for Food: Physics for Crops" to track plant growth after sowing.
