In the heart of Nepal, a groundbreaking study is redefining the future of sustainable agriculture, with implications that could ripple through the energy sector. Rajesh Prakash Guragain, a researcher from Plasma World Private Limited and Kathmandu University, has been exploring the synergistic effects of non-thermal plasma (NTP) and plasma-activated water (PAW) on seed germination and early growth. His work, published in the journal *Results in Engineering* (translated to English as “Results in Engineering”), is opening new avenues for precision agriculture and climate-resilient farming.
Guragain’s research focuses on the combined effect of NTP seed treatment and PAW irrigation on five diverse crop species: barley, mustard, garden cress, buckwheat, and carrot. The study reveals that exposing seeds to atmospheric argon plasma for just three minutes, coupled with irrigating them with PAW—water treated with gliding arc discharge plasma for 5 and 10 minutes—can significantly enhance germination rates and seedling growth.
The results are striking. Barley and carrot seeds, for instance, showed an impressive germination enhancement of up to 88–89%. “The combination of NTP and PAW not only accelerates germination but also promotes rapid water uptake and stimulates physiological responses in the seeds,” Guragain explains. This is attributed to the reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) generated by the plasma treatments, which modify seed surface properties and enhance imbibition dynamics.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. As the world shifts towards sustainable practices, the agricultural industry is increasingly looking for eco-friendly alternatives to conventional priming methods. Plasma-based seed treatment, as demonstrated in Guragain’s study, offers a promising solution. By improving germination rates and seedling vigor, this technology can enhance crop yields and reduce the need for energy-intensive farming practices.
Moreover, the study highlights the potential for plasma technology to be integrated into precision agriculture. “This approach could revolutionize how we cultivate crops, making farming more efficient and resilient to climate change,” Guragain adds. The enhanced water uptake and seedling growth observed in the study suggest that plasma-treated seeds could thrive in diverse environmental conditions, reducing the reliance on extensive irrigation and fertilizers.
As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, the findings from Guragain’s research could pave the way for innovative farming techniques that are both sustainable and economically viable. The integration of plasma technology into agricultural practices not only promises to boost crop yields but also aligns with global efforts to promote energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
In the quest for sustainable agriculture, Guragain’s work stands as a beacon of innovation. His research not only sheds light on the potential of plasma technology but also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing global challenges. As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change, the insights gained from this study could shape the future of farming, ensuring food security and energy efficiency for generations to come.