Characteristics of PAW produced by sub-atmospheric pressure for agricultural applications

Plasma activated waters (PAW) have been studied intensively for sustainable agriculture and post-harvest technology. PAW might be used effectively as green fertilizers, decontamination agent, removal of pesticides and green pesticides, while no harmful by products are left over. The acidic characteristics of the PAW, resulted from nitrate and hydrogen peroxide, can produce high germination rate of various seeds. The mechanism of synergic performance of nitrate and hydrogen peroxide, that release dormancy and increase germination rate, is also proposed. High concentrations of Nitrate and H₂O₂ are required for plant growth and removal of pesticides, respectively. In this work, semi-continuous production PAW with controlled air pressure and water temperature system will be presented. Dielectric barrier discharges are produced on the water surface by applying high-frequency and high-voltage power supply to the floating glass-covered electrode. The effects of air pressure and water temperature will be investigated to study the variations of radical productions. (author)