Plasma-Activated Zn, Fe, Mn Micronutrient Solutions for Crop Biofortification

TL;DR

This study explores using plasma-activated water enriched with micronutrients as a sustainable, eco-friendly method to improve crop growth, soil health, and nutritional quality, offering an alternative to conventional fertilizers.

Contribution

It introduces a novel plasma-based approach for micronutrient delivery in agriculture, demonstrating its effectiveness in crop biofortification and soil health improvement.

Findings

Enhanced germination, chlorophyll, and biomass in treated crops

Increased micronutrient content in grains indicating successful biofortification

No toxicity observed; mild stimulation of soil microbial activity

Abstract

Micronutrient deficiency in soils limits crop productivity and reduces the nutritional quality of cereals and pulses. Conventional fertilizer supplementation often suffers from low bioavailability and environmental losses. In this study, we investigate the use of Plasma Activated Water (PAW) enriched with divalent micronutrient ions as a sustainable alternative to enhance nutrient uptake, soil fertility, and seed vigor. The PAW was generated using a gliding arc plasma system in air, and ion-enriched solutions were prepared at controlled concentrations. The physicochemical parameters (pH, ORP, conductivity, RONS species) were analyzed to assess the plasma induced reactivity. Treatments were applied to micronutrient deficient soils for wheat (Triticum aestivum) and chickpea (Cicer arietinum) seeds under greenhouse conditions. Results demonstrated significant enhancement in germination index, chlorophyll content, and shoot root biomass compared to controls. PAW and ionic treatments notably increased the micronutrient content in grains, indicating effective biofortification. Soil microbial activity and enzyme assays showed no toxicity and a mild stimulatory effect due to reactive nitrogen species. This study establishes a green, scalable method of delivering micronutrients through plasma-activated irrigation water, linking plasma chemistry with sustainable agronomy and nutritional security.