Summary
This study investigates plasma-activated water (PAW) — generated via a gliding arc plasma system in air and enriched with divalent micronutrient ions (Zn, Fe, Mn) — as a novel agronomic tool for addressing soil micronutrient deficiencies in wheat (Triticum aestivum) and chickpea (Cicer arietinum). The research characterises the physicochemical reactivity of PAW solutions and evaluates their capacity to enhance micronutrient bioavailability and plant uptake compared with conventional fertiliser approaches. The paper likely reports improvements in seed vigour and soil micronutrient status, though the magnitude and reproducibility of effects under field conditions would require further validation.
UK applicability
Whilst conducted under Indian agronomic conditions with crops central to South Asian food systems, the underlying plasma-activation technology and biofortification approach are transferable; UK applicability would depend on adaptation to temperate cereal and pulse systems and assessment against existing UK soil micronutrient management frameworks.
Key measures
pH; oxidation-reduction potential (ORP); electrical conductivity; reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) concentration; micronutrient uptake (Zn, Fe, Mn mg/kg); seed germination and vigour indices; soil fertility indicators
Outcomes reported
The study measured physicochemical properties of plasma-activated water (PAW) enriched with zinc, iron, and manganese ions, and assessed their effects on nutrient uptake, soil fertility, and seed vigour in micronutrient-deficient soils planted with wheat and chickpea.
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