Cold plasma treatment and laser irradiation of <i>Triticum</i> spp. seeds for sterilization and germination

Abstract

In this research work, plasma and laser-based treatments have been applied on wheat seeds to improve their growth and development. Plasma treatment modified the surface morphology of seed which enhanced the germination rate and also exhibited great immunity against fungus; only 20% seeds are affected by fungus as compared to the untreated sample. In addition, an increase in protein concentration in plasma treated seeds has also been observed. In the laser treatment, laser pulses have been exercised on wheat seeds, while seeds were also exposed in argon plasma generated at different applied voltages and exposure times. This laser treatment lessens germination time, increases water absorption, and abolishes disease development from seed borne fungi that are present on or within seeds. Thus, it is observed that the use of plasma and laser radiation on the seeds made productive effects on the growth parameters and may be the alternative source for the presowing seed treatment.