Design and effectiveness of pulsed electric fields towards seed disinfection

BACKGROUNDSeeds harbor different microorganisms on their surfaces that degrade seed quality, thus causing an economic loss. Even though different approaches are available for the disinfection of seed surfaces, there is a need to develop environmentally friendly and sustainable technologies. A bench-scale pulsed electric field (PEF) unit was designed to inactivate microflora of eight seeds after which the resultant vigor of the treated seeds was determined. RESULTSSignificant reductions were obtained in endogenous natural and inoculated pathogenic (Alternaria brassica and Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris, Drechslera graminea and Fusarium graminearum) microflora of seeds. The survival ratios of total aerobic mesophilic bacteria and of total mold and yeast decreased significantly for winter wheat and barley, parsley, onion, lettuce, tomato, and garden rocket with the PEF treatments of 240 and 960J. A significant increase in germination ratio was observed for winter wheat and barley, lettuce, and tomato with 960J. Germination energy increased for parsley with 240J and for winter wheat and barley, lettuce, tomato, and garden rocket with 960J. A better root development and seedling were found for winter barley. CONCLUSIONPEFs are a viable option to both disinfect seed surfaces and improve seed vigor. (c) 2019 Society of Chemical Industry