Progress 05/01/18 to 04/30/23
Outputs
Target Audience:Basil greenhouse growers, fresh produce growers using hydroponics, cold plasma equipment manufacturers, fresh produce supermarkets, and agricultural and food scientists. Changes/Problems: The location for scale-up studies was changed from Rutgers EcoComplex in Bordentown, NJ to a greenhouse located on Cook Campus of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. The locationwas changed due to unavailability of the greenhouse at Rutgers EcoComplex. At Drexel University (DU) due to the departure of one of the original Co-PIs (Greg Fridman) the work on the project was delayed due the needed approval for Co-PI transfer from NIFA-USDA. The new Co-PI from DU was Alexander Rabinovich. Due to the small laboratory space at NCSU, high levels of ozone and NOx emissions were detected. This also resulted in undesirable reduction of reactive species in PAW or PANS. Therefore, thedesign of the gliding arc plasma equipment (plasmatron) was modified to add an exhaust system, which helped reduce thelevels of emissions and eliminate the hazard to the operator.A humidifier was added in the system along with three mixing pumps, which improved the retention of reactive species in PAW or PANS. At RU greenhouse, initiating the scale-up trialsproved to be very challenging because of delays in the delivery of supplies and highly restricted access to on-campus facilities during theCOVID-19 pandemic. At RU greenhouse, initial hydroponic trials for growing basil plants were unsuccessful as a result of unanticipated high levels of sodium and chlorine in tap water. The high levels of sodium and chlorine were due to the salt that was sprayed on the streets during snowstorms which leached into the local tap water supply. In the greenhouse experiments, we encounteredissues ofstunted roots for thebasil plants grown using plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) that was prepared using the large scale submerged plasma system. The system was refined andmodified to generate more reactive species. It was found that peroxide levels werehigh after PANS preperation. Therefore, we kept PANS for 5 days at room temperature to drop theperoxide levels to zero concentration. We were usingnutrient solution (NS) to prepare PANSwith the large scale submerged plasma system. Since the chemicals in the NS might be harmful to the submergedarc plasma torch, we switched to tap water to make plasma-activated water (PAW) which was then mixed with NS to make PANS. It was found initially thatthe nitrogen levels in PAW prepared using submerged plasma system were low. Therefore,plasma treatment time was increased to ~9hours for preparing20 gallons of PAW. However, longer treatment time resulted in technical issues with the power supply of thelarge scale submerged plasma system, which had to redesigned. It was suggested that using spring water to make PAW instead of tap water might be better not only for the plasma torch as well as for generation of higher amounts of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS). However, we did not find any substantial differencein the concentrations of RONS in PAW and their effect on the basil plant growth. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Over the course of this project (2018-2023) RU: This project partially supported the research training of twograduate students, and threepostdoctoral associates. NCSU: This project partialy supported threegraduate students and one postdoctoral scholar associate. DU: This project partially supported one research engineer who was engaged in technology development and plasma equipment operation. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The results were disseminated through presentations at scientific conferences,USDA project directors' meetings, industry advisory board meetings and via invited talks. In addition, the following activities were also conducted. RU • A tour of RU greenhouse was provided to External Advisory Board (EAB) members during one EAB meeting. • A tour of the lab and lab-scale hydroponic basil growing unit was provided to visitors from Bangladesh, Brazil, India, and China at RU. •PI Karwe and Co-PI Salvi published a magazine article at The International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST), Scientific Information Bulletin (SIB). PI Karwe presented seminars to a large international group (100+), to Vegetable Growers Association of New Jersey (during 2021 and 2022 NJ Agricultural Convention and Trade Show-attended by approximately 80 participants)and to the teachers of a technical high school on New Jersey. NCSU • A tour of the lab-scale hydroponic basil growing unit and plasma equipment was provided to 10 summer undergraduate scholars from NCSU Food Science Summer Scholars Program 2019. •Co-PI Salvi presented at severaluniversities, industries, stakeholder meetings and participated in a food science podcast for the general public. • The student Rivero from NCSU presented at various national and local conferences and won several awards in research competitions (NCSU), which were open to the general public. DU •A. Fridman and A. Rabinovich made presentations at various national and international conferences. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
During the entire project period At Rutgers University (RU): • Plasma-activated water (PAW) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) were prepared using the plasma generation systems developed by Drexel University. PAW and PANS were chemically characterized in terms of pH, electrical conductivity,concentrations of ozone, peroxide, and reactive nitrogen species (nitrates and nitrites) during the generation, and during their storage at room temperature. • Sweet basil (Rutgers Devotion DMR variety) plants were grown hydroponically using the nutrient solution (NS) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) on two lab-scale benches (0.6 m wide x 1.1 m long each)each holding up to 14plants. The growth and quality parameters of the basil plants and basil leaves were measured and compared between NS and PANS treatments. Total of fourbatches were grown for reproducibility. The growing period of each batch was five weeks. • Sweet basil seeds (Rutgers Devotion DMR variety) were treated with Plasmajet®and grown hydroponically using the nutrient solution (NS) on two lab-scale benches (0.6 m wide x 1.1 m long each)each holding up to 14plants. The growth and quality parameters of the basil plants and basil leaves were measured and compared between plasma-treated and untreated conditions. Total of fourbatches were grown for reproducibility. The growing period of each batch was five weeks. • Sweet basil (Rutgers Devotion DMR variety) plants were grown hydroponically using the nutrient solution (NS) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) on two greenhouse-scale benches (1.30 m wide x 5.02 m long each) each holding up to 92 plants. The growth and quality parameters of the basil plants and basil leaves were measured and compared between NS and PANS treatments. Total of nineteen batches were grown to optimize the plasma treatment and greenhouse conditions. The growing period of each batch was five weeks. • In the greenhouse studies, the longer treatment (~ 9 hours/20 gallons) of water with submerged plasma resulted in higher amounts of nitrates and nitrites in PAW which was desirable for the basil plant growth. • It was found that treating water with submerged plasma to make PAW and then followed by mixing PAW with NS to make PANS was better for the health of the basil plants. • The large scale plasma-activated mist (L-PAM) system was tested inthe greenhouse. Its limitations were identified. • The effectiveness of the exposure to the mist generated using the L-PAM system on inactivating Klebsiella michiganesis (a surrogate of Salmonella) on the surface of agar in Petri plates, was investigated. • The effectiveness of mist generated from a small benchtop scale plasma-activated mist (S-PAM) system was investigated on inactivating Klebsiella michiganesis on the surface of agar in Petri plates and on fresh produce such as purple lettuce, spinach, and kale. At North Carolina State University (NCSU): • Rutgers Devotion (DMR) sweet basil plants were grown hydroponically in a controlled environment in lab-scale experiments. Plants were assessed after 3 weeks in terms of yield, morphology, quality, and antioxidant activity of catalase and ascorbic acid. It was found that PANS enhanced the growth of sweet basil by triggering antioxidant responses. Effect of chemistry of PANS altered by different methods of preparation was also investigated. •Mechanism of growth enhancement in plants irrigated by PANS with long-lived RNS and simulated RNS (either nitrate or nitrite-supplemented NS) compared to NS-irrigated plants. Simulated RNS solutions showed significant improvements in plant height, the number of branches, and yield (dry weight) suggesting RNS-only plasma chemistry could also enhance plant growth and excite the antioxidant cell metabolism. •Plasma-treated liquids (PAW, PANS) were tested for inactivation of planktonic Escherichia coli DH5α and Listeria innocua biofilm and compared to controls (NS, chlorine-supplemented NS (NS+Cl), and chlorine (Cl)). Cl and PAW significantly inactivated E. coli with and without organic matter by ~7.5 logs reductions and L. innocua biofilm by ~6 logs reductions. PANS was as effective as PAW and Cl at E. coli inactivation but showed ~2 logs lower L. innocua biofilm inactivation. • A dielectric barrier discharge plasma system developed by Drexel University was used to exposeSalmonella Typhimuriuminoculated fresh produce (sweet basil leaf, blueberry, strawberry, and blackberry) for 20-45min using cold atmospheric pressure plasma (CAPP) or plasma-activated mist (PAM).The inactivation of microorganisms (E. coliDH5α,Listeria innocua, andSalmonellaTyphimurium) on Petri plates (20, 35, or 45 min treatments) was also studied.The sanitation efficacies and RONS concentrations of CAPP and PAM were evaluated and compared. • A cold atmospheric pressure plasma jet was used to make plasma-activated water (PAW) by activating deionized water (DI water). PAW was used to treat alfalfa sprouts, broccoli sprouts, and clover sprouts for 5 min and evaluated for sanitation efficacy. The results in terms of bacteria inactivation and effects on the quality of sprouts were compared with 200 ppm chlorine (Cl) and DI water wash, and unwashed sprouts. AtDrexel University (DU): • Thesmall scaleplasma-activated mist system (S-PAM) was designed and optimised to be used in benchtop experiments atRU and at NCSU. • Twosmallscale plasmatronsystems weredeveloped for use in the lab-scale experiments, one for RU and one for NCSU. • The largescaleplasma-activated mist system (L-PAM) was designed and optimised to be used in greenhouse experiments atRU. • Thelarge scale (up to 4kW) submerged plasmagliding arc system was developed for use in thegreenhouse at RU. • Two major regimes of the gliding arc plasma operation have been studied: gliding arc jet submerged in water, and atomized water dispersed in a gliding arc chamber before collecting in a bulk water. It was demonstrated that the first approach (submerged plasmawithout water line) provided softer effect on the plant growth without damaging them. • In the gliding arc submerged plasma system, the effects plasma treatment on physical properties of water, including surface tension, surfactancy, wash ability and viscosity were studied. It was hypothesized that plasma stimulated capillary effect can affect plants feeding and growth. RU, NCSU, and DU: • PI, Co-PIs and their research teams met every 3-4months to share the research progress by each group and plan the actions for the next period. In addition, six External Advisory Board (EAB) meetings were held in person or on Zoom during the entire project period. The last EAB meeting was held on Zoom on May 31st 2023. • Overall, this project resulted in sixrefereedjournal articles, one magazine article, twelveconference papers, nineteen presentations, twomaster theses, and onePh.D. dissertations. • Two lab-scale plasma-activated mist (S-PAM) systems, two lab-scaleplasmatron systems, one greenhouse-scale (large)plasma-activated mist (L-PAM) system, and one greenhouse-scale submerged plasma system were designed and developed.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
A.Fridman, A.Rabinovich, â¿¿Application of non thermal plasma in agricultureâ¿, Plenary Lecture International Symposium on Plasma Technology, ISP Plasma 2023, Gifu, Japan, 2023
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
A.Fridman, A.Rabinovich, â¿¿Plasma Effect on Physical Properties of Water (Surface Tension, Viscosity and Contact Angle) for Biology and Agricultureâ¿ Oral Presentation International Symposium on Plasma Chemistry, ISPC25, Kyoto, Japan, 2023
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Shaji, M.; Rabinovich, A.; Surace, M.; Sales, C.; Fridman, A. Physical Properties of Plasma-Activated Water. Plasma 2023, 6, 45â¿¿57. https://doi.org/10.3390/plasma6010005
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Rivero, W., Wang, Q., & Salvi, D. (2022). Effect of Plasma-activated Water on Microbiological and Quality Characteristics of Alfalfa Sprouts, Broccoli Sprouts, and Clover Sprouts. Innovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies, 81, 103123
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ifset.2022.103123
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Salvi, D. and M.V. Karwe (2021) Sustainable and safer indoor farming of produce using new technologies: challenges and opportunities. The International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST), Scientific Information Bulletin (SIB). http://www.iufost.org/news/urban-food-production-new-sib.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Salvi, D. (2021). Research updates on cold plasma technology. University of Georgia, Athens. November 4, 2021
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Salvi, D. (2021). Research updates on cold plasma technology. The Ohio State University. October 5, 2021
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Salvi, D. (2021). Cool Tech Part II: Pressure and Plasma with Dr. Deepti Salvi. Wolfing Down Food Science. April 2021. https://open.spotify.com/show/1Gqk6evevPU6TwaoVfFq5y
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Rivero, W. C. (2022). "Enhancing growth of hydroponic sweet basil using cold plasma technology", Graduate Student Symposium. North Carolina State University. April 2022.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Rivero, W. C. (2022). " Enhancing growth of hydroponic sweet basil using cold plasma technology ", Latin American Graduate Student Symposium. North Carolina State University. April 2022.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Rivero, W. C. (2021). "Cold plasma-based technology for hydroponic sweet basil growth". 3-min Thesis Competition at International Association of Food Protection - Student Professional Development Group. The presentation won 1st place Co-winner Judges Choice award. June 2021.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Rivero, W. C. (2021). "Comparison of cold atmospheric pressure plasma (CAPP) and plasma-activated mist (PAM) for inactivation of E. coli DH5alpha, Listeria innocua, and Salmonella Typhimurium". Graduate Student Oral Competition at Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) - Non-thermal Processing Division. The presentation won 3rd place. June 2021.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Rivero, W. C. (2021). "Enhancing growth of hydroponic sweet basil using cold plasma technology", 3-minute thesis (3MT) Presentation Contest Finalist, where graduate students present their research goals and impact in 3 minutes to a general audience. December 2021.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Salvi, D. (2021). â¿¿Applications of Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma in Agriculture,â¿ BASF, January 12, 2021.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Wen Rivero Pena, "Cold Plasma-Based Technology for Hydroponic Sweet Basil Growth", Pack Pics 2020-2021 infographic contest, February 14, 2021, 1st place â¿¿Homegrown Awardâ¿¿, awarded to research which showcases NCSUs mission of applied research to real-world problems at the local, national, or global level.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Rivero, W. C. (2021). " Effect of plasma-activated liquids on the growth, quality, and microbiological safety of produce ". 3-minute thesis (3MT) Presentation Contest, December 2, 2020, contest where graduate students present their research goals and impact in 3 minutes to a general audience
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Rivero, W., Wang, Q., & Salvi, D. (2023). Cold atmospheric pressure plasma and plasma-activated mist as novel food sanitizers: microbial inactivation properties and chemical composition. Journal of Food Safety
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Date, M., Rivero, W., Tan, J., Specca, D., Simon, J., Salvi, D. and M.V. Karwe (2023). Effect of plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) on sweet basil (O. basilicum L.) grown using an ebb and flow hydroponic system. Agriculture, 2023, 13, 443. https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13020443
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Rivero W., Wang, Q., & Salvi, D. Comparison of cold atmospheric pressure plasma (CAPP) and plasma-activated mist (PAM) as novel produce sanitizers: Identification of antimicrobial compounds and antimicrobial efficacy on produce surfaces. 15th Conference of Food Engineering, September 2022, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Wen Rivero â¿¿Plasma, the Future of Food Safety.â¿ won 1st place in the 2022 Envisioning Research by NCSU in the category of Graduate Students and Postdocs
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Wen Rivero received a 1st place award, a 3-min thesis competition, during the 9th Latin American Research Symposium at NCSU. Their presentation was titled "Enhancing growth of hydroponic sweet basil using cold plasma technology"
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Wen Rivero was a student presenter during the TEDx at NC, their presentation was titled "Enhancing growth of hydroponic sweet basil using cold plasma technology"
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Karwe M.V. and Inanoglu, S., â¿¿Applications of Cold Plasma in Hydroponics,â¿ 2022 NJ Ag/VGANJ Convention, February 9, 2022.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Karwe M.V. and Salvi D., â¿¿Applications of Cold Plasma in Hydroponics,â¿ 2021 NJ Ag/VGANJ Virtual Convention, February 25, 2021.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Karwe MV. and Salvi D., â¿¿Effect of cold plasma on physical and quality parameters of hydroponically grown sweet basil,â¿ Sweet Basil: Managing Basil Under Increasingly Challenging Conditions A Virtual Workshop, Hosted by University of Massachusetts Amherst in collaboration with Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences and Cornell University as part of our USDA/SCRI/NIFA supported Sweet Basil Research Initiative, December 11, 2020.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Karwe M.V. â¿¿Controlled Environmental Agriculture: Application of Cold Plasma,â¿ Association of the Management Agriculture and Agriculture Allied Colleges, India.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Rivero W. (2021). â¿¿Application of Plasma Technologies For Non-thermal Food Processingâ¿. Research Spotlight contest, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC. Awarded third prize.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Fridman A., Rabinovich A. "Plasma Misting in Agriculture", Invited Presentation, International Workshop on Plasma for Agriculture, IWOPA-4, Greifswald, Germany, (virtual), March 2021.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Date M., Karwe M.V. (2020). â¿¿Design and Development of Laboratory Scale Hydroponic System for Growing Sweet Basil Using Plasma Activated Nutrient Solution (PANS)â¿. New York Institute of Food Technologist Student Night Meeting, New Brunswick, NJ.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Salvi, D. (2020). â¿¿Novel Food Processing Methods for Improving Food Safety and Qualityâ¿. NC State Emerging Research Showcase: Food, Biochemical & Engineered system, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Fridman A., Rabinovich A., Dobrynin D. "Plasma Simulated NO Generation, Plasma Production of Fertilizers, Plasma Stimulation of Plant Growth", Invited Talk, International Symposium on Plasma Applications, ISPlasma- 10, Nagoya (virtual), Japan, March 2021.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Rivero W.,ÿ Shin E., Wang Q., and Salvi D. (2020). â¿¿Effect of Plasma-activated Nutrient Solution on the Growth and Quality of Hydroponic Sweet Basilâ¿. 7th Latin American Research Symposium, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC. Awarded first prize in aÿ poster presentation competition.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Salvi D., Karwe M.V. and Fridman G. (2019). An integrated approach for improving growth and quality of sweet basil using cold plasma activated water and mist. Annual Granteeâ¿¿s meeting (USDA NIFA) New Orleans, LA, June 2, 2019.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Karwe M. V. , Tan J., and Date M. (2019). Improving growth and quality of sweet basil using cold plasma activated water and mist. 12th Annual Nutrition, Endocrinology & Food Science (NEFS) Graduate Student Conference, New Brunswick, NJ.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Fridman A., Fridman G., Bailey C., Rabinovich A., Sales C., Sekhon J. (2019). DBD and GlidArcs in Plasma Agriculture and Food Safety. 24th International Symposium on Plasma Chemistry, Naples, Italy.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Rabinovich, A., Nirenberg, G., Kocagoz, S., Surace, M., Sales, C., & Fridman, A. (2021). Scaling Up of Non-Thermal Gliding Arc Plasma Systems for Industrial Applications.ÿ Plasma Chemistry and Plasma Processing, 1-16.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Tan, J., & Karwe, M. V. (2021). Inactivation of Enterobacter aerogenes on the surfaces of fresh-cut purple lettuce, kale, and baby spinach leaves using plasma activated mist (PAM).ÿ Innovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies,ÿ 74, 102868.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
"Design and Development of Laboratory Scale Hydroponic System for Growing Sweet Basil Using Plasma Activated Nutrient Solutionâ¿, Manasi Date, Rutgers University, 2020 (M.S. Thesis)
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
â¿¿Effect of Plasma-activated Liquids on the Growth, Quality, and Microbiological Safety of Fresh Produceâ¿, Wendy Rivero Pena, NCSU, 2020 (M.S. Thesis)
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
â¿¿Applications of Plasma Technologies for Pre- and Post- Harvest Sanitation of Hydroponic Produceâ¿, Wen Rivero Pena, NCSU, 2022 (Ph.D. dissertation, date of completion: Nov. 2022)
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Karaayak, P. E., Inanoglu, S., Karwe, M. (2023). Impact of cold plasma treatment of sweet basil seeds on the growth and quality of basil plants in a lab-scale hydroponic system. ACS Agricultural Science & Technology.
|
Progress 05/01/21 to 04/30/22
Outputs
Target Audience:Basil green house growers, fresh produce growers using hydroponics, cold plasma equipment manufacturers, fresh produce supermarkets, plasma scientists, agricultural & food scientists, regulating agencies. Changes/Problems:We are encountering issues with root stunting of basil plantsgrown using plasma-activated nutrient solutionprepared usingthe large scale submerged plasma system. It will require further refinements or modifications of the equipment and the plasma treatment protocol. These tests are currently ongoing. Until these issues are resolved, outreach to the greenhouse grower community would be on hold. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?RU: This project has supported the research training of three undergraduate students, two graduate students, and two post-doctoral scholars. NCSU: This project has supported two graduate students and one postdoctoral scholar associated with this project. DU: This project has supported one research engineer who was engaged in technology development and plasma equipment operation. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?RU: PI Karwe and Co-PI Salvi published a magazine article at The International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST), Scientific Information Bulletin (SIB). PI Karwe presented seminars to a large international group (100+), to Vegetable Growers Association of New Jersey (during 2022 NJ Agricultural Convention and Trade Show) and to the teachers of a technical high school on New Jersey. NCSU: Co-PI Salvi presented at two American universities and a food science podcast for the general public. The student Rivero from NCSU presented at two national research competitions (IFT and IAFP) and three local research competitions (NCSU), which were open to the general public. DU: A. Fridman made presentations at 1) International Conference on Plasma Medicine, ICPM8, Non Thermal Plasma for Application in Medicine and Agriculture, Seoul, South Korea, 2) International Symposium on Plasma Bioscience ISPB10, Applications of Plasma Activated Water, Seoul, South Korea, and 3) International Symposium on Plasma Bioscience ISPB11, Atmospheric Pressure Plasma for Biological and Agriculture Applications, Seoul, South Korea, 2022. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?RU and RU EcoComplex: • Continue ongoing hydroponic trials, with adjustments as needed, and collect data on plant growth and water quality. • Continue ongoing misting trials and collect data on plant quality and pathogen control, make adjustments as necessary. • Analyze the data collected from the completed hydroponic and misting trials and perform statistical analyses. • Plan and advertise a one-day seminar on the applications of plasma technology for hydroponics and food safety. • Conduct a regionally-based seminars for farmers, especially greenhouse growers, on the applications of plasma technology for hydroponics and food safety. Film the greenhouse trials to use for instructional purposes during the seminar. • Contact greenhouse grower trade journals to publish articles about the plasma technologies utilization in hydroponics and food safety applications. • Work with the research team to compile a summary of our findings into a report on plasma technology for hydroponics and food safety applications. Trade publications such as the "Vegetable Grower" and "HortTechnology" will be targeted for this information. NCSU: • Continue hydroponic growth trials for sweet basil with nutrient solution (NS) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS), then analyze the basil plants for growth, yield, quality, and antioxidant activity. DU: • Continue operation of greenhouse scale PAM DBD plasma system with power up to 300 W at RU greenhouse. • Continue operation of greenhouse scale PAW system equipped with gliding arc plasmatron (power up to 3 kW) at RU greenhouse. • Experimental investigation of plasma stimulated capillary effect to control and enhance plants growth.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Rutgers University (RU): • Plasma-activated water (PAW) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) were chemically characterized in terms of pH, electrical conductivity, ozone, peroxide, and concentrations of reactive nitrogen species: nitrates and nitrites during generation of PAW and PANS, and during their storage at room temperature. • Sweet basil (Rutgers Devotion DMR variety) plants were grown hydroponically using the nutrient solution (NS) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) on two benches (130 cm wide x 502 cm long each) each holding up to 92 plants. The growth and quality parameters of the basil plants and basil leaves were measured and compared between NS and PANS treatments. • Adjustments to the nutrient solution and environmental conditions have been made based on the results of nutrient solution and tissue analysis and the relative performance of both treatments. • The large scale plasma-activated mist (L-PAM) system has been set up for the greenhouse experiments. • The effectiveness of the exposure to the mist generated using L-PAM system on inactivating Enterobacter aerogenes on surface of agar in Petri plates, was investigated. • The effectiveness of mist generated from a small benchtop scale plasma-activated mist (S-PAM) system was investigated on inactivating Listeria innocua on surface of agar in Petri plates. • There has not been a "Twilight Meeting" held for greenhouse growers because the results of the trials have not been conclusive. We are still modifying the tweaking the large PAW and PAM systems to improve their efficacy for validation in large scale studies. • Photo documentation of the various growing stages of the plant roots and foliage has been done to aid in our outreach and education goals. • Results and knowledge of plasma agriculture were disseminated to the scientific community by Dr. Karwe through seminars to a large (100+) international group, to Vegetable Growers Association of New Jersey (during 2022 NJ AgriculturalConvention and Trade Show) and to the teachers of a technical high school on New Jersey. North Carolina State University (NCSU): • Rutgers Devotion (DMR) sweet basil plants were grown hydroponically in a controlled environment. The goal of this experiment was to test the hypothesis that plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) enhances the growth of sweet basil by triggering antioxidant responses. Plants were assessed after 3 weeks in terms of yield, morphology, quality, and antioxidant activity of catalase and ascorbic acid. Currently, the second trial is in progress. • A dielectric barrier discharge plasma developed by Drexel University was used to do 20 min treatments using cold-atmospheric pressure plasma (CAPP) or plasma-activated mist (PAM) on Salmonella Typhimurium inoculated fresh produce (sweet basil leaf, blueberry, strawberry, and blackberry). The sanitation efficacies of CAPP and PAM from the same source were evaluated and compared. • A cold atmospheric pressure plasma jet was used to make plasma-activated water (PAW) by activating deionized water (DI water). PAW was used to treat alfalfa sprouts, broccoli sprouts, and clover sprouts for 5 min and evaluated for sanitation efficacy. The results of bacteria inactivation and effects on the quality of sprouts were compared to 200 ppm chlorine (Cl) and DI water wash, and unwashed sprouts. • Results and knowledge of plasma agriculture were disseminated to the scientific community by Dr. Salvi through seminars in two American universities and a food science podcast for the general public. • Results were disseminated to the scientific community by a graduate student supported by this project. The student presented a poster at the International Association of Food Protection (IAFP) titled "Development of Plasma-based decontamination treatment for hydroponic nutrient solution", and a poster at the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) titled "Comparison of cold-atmospheric pressure plasma (CAPP) and plasma-activated mist (PAM) for inactivation of E. coli DH5alpha, Listeria innocua, and Salmonella Typhimurium". Drexel University (DU): • Built, delivered and operated a large scale (plasma power up to 300 W) plasma-activated mist system to be used in a greenhouse located in New Brunswick, NJ (RU). • Manufactured, delivered and operated a large scale (up to 3 kW) plasma-activated water PAW gliding arc system in a greenhouse (New Brunswick, NJ). • Two major regimes of the gliding arc plasma operation have been studied: gliding arc jet submerged in water, and atomized water dispersed in a gliding arc chamber before collecting in a bulk water. It was demonstrated that the first approach (submerged plasma jet without water line) provides softer effect on the plant growth without damaging them. • Gliding arc plasma effect on physical properties of water, including surface tension, surfactancy, wash ability and viscosity have been studied. It was hypothesized that plasma stimulated capillary effect can affect plants feeding and growth. RU, NCSU, and DU: PI, Co-PIs and their research teams met every two months to share the research progress by each group and plan the actions for the next two-months period. In addition, twoExternal Advisory Board (EAB) meetings were held on Zoom during the last year.Members from the External Advisory Board participated and provided feedback on the research accomplishments and future directions during these EAB meetings.
Publications
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Tan, J., & Karwe, M. V. (2021). Inactivation of Enterobacter aerogenes on the surfaces of fresh-cut purple lettuce, kale, and baby spinach leaves using plasma activated mist (PAM). Innovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies, 74, 102868.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Date, M., Rivero, W. C., Tan, J., Specca, D., Simon, J., Salvi, D. and M.V. Karwe (2022) Effect of plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) on sweet basil (O. basilicum L.) grown using an ebb and flow hydroponic system. Scientia Horticulturae.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Rivero, W. C., Wang, Q., & Salvi, D. (2022). Effect of Plasma-activated Water on Microbiological and Quality Characteristics of Alfalfa Sprouts, Broccoli Sprouts, and Clover Sprouts. Innovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Salvi, D. and M.V. Karwe (2021) Sustainable and safer indoor farming of produce using new technologies: challenges and opportunities. The International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST), Scientific Information Bulletin (SIB).
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Rivero, W. C. (2022). "Enhancing growth of hydroponic sweet basil using cold plasma technology", Graduate Student Symposium. North Carolina State University.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Rivero, W. C. (2022). " Enhancing growth of hydroponic sweet basil using cold plasma technology ", Latin American Graduate Student Symposium. North Carolina State University.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Rivero, W. C. (2021). "Cold plasma-based technology for hydroponic sweet basil growth". 3-min Thesis Competition at International Association of Food Protection - Student Professional Development Group.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Rivero, W. C. (2021). "Comparison of cold atmospheric pressure plasma (CAPP) and plasma-activated mist (PAM) for inactivation of E. coli DH5alpha, Listeria innocua, and Salmonella Typhimurium". Graduate Student Oral Competition at Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) - Non-thermal Processing Division.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Rivero, W. C. (2021). "Enhancing growth of hydroponic sweet basil using cold plasma technology", 3-minute thesis (3MT) Presentation Contest Finalist, North Carolina State University graduate school, where graduate students presented their research goals and impact in 3 minutes to a general audience.
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Progress 05/01/20 to 04/30/21
Outputs
Target Audience:Basil greenhouse growers, fresh produce growers using hydroponics, cold plasma equipment manufacturers, fresh produce supermarkets, plasma scientists, and agricultural and food scientists. Changes/Problems:· Due to the small laboratory space at NCSU, high levels of ozone and NOx emissions were detected. Therefore, the design of the gliding arc plasma equipment (plasmatron) was modified to add an exhaust system, which helped reduce the levels of emissions and eliminate the hazard to the operator. This also resulted in undesirable reduction of reactive species in PAW or PANS. A humidifier was added in the system along with three mixing pumps, which improved the retention of reactive species in PAW or PANS. · At RU Greenhouse, initiating the scale-up trialsthis year proved to be very challenging because of delays in the delivery of supplies and highly restricted access to on-campus facilities due toCOVID-19 pandemic. · At RU Greenhouse, the initial hydroponic trials for growing basil plantswere unsuccessful as a result of unanticipated high levels of sodium and chlorine in tap water. The high levels of sodium and chlorine were due to the saltthat was sprayed during snowstorms which leached into the local tap water supply. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?RU: This project has supported the research training of two graduate students, one postdoctoral scholar, and a research technician. NCSU: This project has supported one graduate student and one postdoctoral scholar was associated with this project. DU: This project has supported one research technicianwho was engaged in technology development. Through this interdisciplinary training, these researchers are engaged in both laboratory science and technology development. In addition, the interactions among the team members have generated a significant degree of cross-disciplinary collaborative research. The students and post-docs were provided opportunities for technical presentations during bimonthly research progress meetings. Through the interaction with the external advisory board members, the students and post-docs have gained an understanding of challenges faced by the fresh produce industry, especially using hydroponics. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The results were presented by the PDand the co-PDs at various outreach forums. The PDKarwe made two presentations at virtual conferences involving basil and vegetable growers (attended by approximately 80 participants). Co-PDSalvi made a virtual presentation forBASF Inc (attended 30-40 participants globally). The studentPena from NCSU presented at two local research competitions which were open to general public. Co-PDs Fridman and Rabinovich presented at two international plasma conferences attended by plasma scientists. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?RU Install scaled up PAM system atRutgersgreenhouse and grow sweet basil plants with PAM treatment and collect data on plant quality. Install scaled up plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) based hydroponic system at Rutgersgreenhouse and grow sweet basil plants in the greenhouse. Conduct a "Twilight Meeting" for greenhouse growers at the greenhouse to showcase the experimental system, educate the growers on how the technology works, and help them determine if plasma technology would be a good choicefor their greenhouse operations. NCSU: Continue hydroponic growth trials for sweet basil with nutrient solution (NS) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS), then analyze the basil plants for growth, yield, and quality, including aroma profile. Conduct preliminary evaluation for shelf-life. DU: Set-up and operate greenhouse scale DBD PAMsystem with power up to 300 W at RU greenhouse. Validate, deliver, install and operate greenhouse scale PAW system equipped with gliding arc plasma system (power up to 3 kW) at RU greenhouse.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Rutgers University (RU): A benchtop scale plasma activated mist (PAM) system was built and the effectiveness of PAM exposure on inactivatingEnterobacter aerogeneson the surfaces of spinach, lettuce, basil, and kale leaves, and on surface of agarin Petri plates, was investigated. Sweet basil (Rutgers Devotion DMR variety) seeds were exposed to air-based plasma jet. The growth and microbiological parameters of basil plants grown hydroponically from plasma-treated seeds were compared to the basil plants from untreated seeds. Two larger but identical greenhouse hydroponic systems to grow about 90 sweet basil (Rutgers Devotion DMR variety) plants each were set up at Rutgers greenhouse (located in New Brunswick, NJ), and a plasma activated mist (PAM) system was set up in the greenhouse. Two presentations on possible applications of the plasma technology were made by Dr. Karwe at two virtual conferences. They were attended by approximately 80 participants and there were several follow-up contacts for more information. North Carolina State University (NCSU): Sweet basil (Rutgers Devotion DMR variety) plants were grown hydroponically usingnutrient solution (NS) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) in flood-and-drain systems (4 ftx 2 ft, 14 plants per treatment) in enclosed chambers under controlled lights, in a single trial. The current trials involve testing yield, growth, and quality characteristics of the plants using PANS that wasproduced under different operating conditions than last year. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) were identified from the plasma-activated mist (PAM) and cold atmospheric-pressure plasma (CAPP) using colorimetric methods, spectroscopy, and gas analyzer. Hydrogen peroxide, nitrite, nitrate, and ozone concentrations were quantified. PAM was tested for microbial reduction of multiple microorganisms (E. coli DH5α, L. innocua,andS. Typhimurium)in Petri dishes, and on spinach and basil leaves. Plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) and plasma-activated water (PAW) were evaluated in terms of continuous pH management and microbial reduction ofE. coli DH5αfor recirculated nutrient solutions in hydroponic farming while maintaining the nutrient profile necessary for plant growth. The design of the gliding arc plasma equipment (plasmatron) used to produce PANS was improved by addition of an exhaust system, three mixing pumps, and ahumidifier to improve operator safety and retain reactive species within the treatment liquid. Results and knowledge of plasma agriculture were disseminated through a global virtual seminar by Dr. Salvi. The seminar was attended by BASF Inc. stakeholders. Results were disseminated to the scientific community by a student supported by this project. The student participated in an infographic submission and virtual presentation in the Pack Pics contest, and a video submission in3-minute thesis (3MT) competition at North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC. Drexel University (DU): Designed, manufactured, and tested large scale (plasma power up to 300 W) plasma-activated mist (PAM) system for installation atRutgers greenhouse. The system has been delivered to the greenhouse and is ready for operation. Designed, manufactured, and tested a greenhouse scale plasma activated water (PAW) gliding arc system for installation in Rutgers greenhouse. The validation tests of this system are in progress, beforedelivery to RU.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Mukund V. Karwe and Deepti Salvi, Applications of Cold Plasma in Hydroponics, 2021 NJ Ag/VGANJ Virtual Convention, February 25, 2021.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Mukund V. Karwe and Deepti Salvi, Effect of cold plasma on physical and quality parameters of hydroponically grown sweet basil, Sweet Basil: Managing Basil Under Increasingly Challenging Conditions A Virtual Workshop, Hosted by University of Massachusetts Amherst in collaboration with Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences and Cornell University as part of our USDA/SCRI/NIFA supported Sweet Basil Research Initiative, December 11, 2020.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Deepti Salvi, Applications of Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma in Agriculture, BASF, January 12, 2021.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Alexander Fridman, Alexander Rabinovich, Danil Dobrynin "Plasma Simulated NO Generation, Plasma Production of Fertilizers, Plasma Stimulation of Plant Growth", Invited Talk, International Symposium on Plasma Applications, ISPlasma-10, Nagoya (virtual), Japan, March 2021.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Alexander Fridman, Alexander Rabinovich "Plasma Misting in Agriculture", Invited Presentation, International Workshop on Plasma for Agriculture, IWOPA-4, Greifswald, Germany, (virtual), March 2021.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Wen Rivero Pena, "Cold Plasma-Based Technology for Hydroponic Sweet Basil Growth", Pack Pics 2020-2021 infographic contest, February 14, 2021, 1st place Homegrown Award, awarded to research which showcases NCSU's mission of applied research to real-world problems at the local, national, or global level.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Wen Rivero Pena, "Effect of plasma-activated liquids on the growth, quality, and microbiological safety of produce", 3-minute thesis (3MT) Presentation Contest, December 2, 2020, contest where graduate students present their research goals and impact in 3 minutes to a general audience.
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Progress 05/01/19 to 04/30/20
Outputs
Target Audience:Basil greenhouse growers, fresh produce growers using hydroponics, cold plasma equipment manufacturers, fresh produce supermarkets, and agricultural and food scientists. Changes/Problems:At Drexel University (DU) due to the departure of one of the original Co-PIs (Greg Fridman) the work on the project was delayed due the needed approval for Co-PI transfer from NIFA-USDA. The new Co-PI from DU is Alexander Rabinovich. Due to the unavailability of the original greenhouse associated with the EcoComplex, the scale-up experiments will now be conducted in the Rutgers Agricultural Experiment Station Research Greenhouse located onCook campus (College Farm road), New Brunswick, NJ. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?This project has supported the research training of 1 undergraduate student, 2 graduate students, 2 postdoctoral scholars, and a research technician. Through this interdisciplinary training, these researchers are engaged in both laboratory science and technology development. In addition, the interactions among the team members have generated significant degree of cross-disciplinary collaborative research. The students and post-docs were provided opportunities for technical presentations during bimonthly research progress meetings. Through the interaction with the external advisory board members, the students and post-docs have gained understanding of challenges faced by fresh produce industry using hydroponics. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results were disseminated to stakeholders via a conference poster presentation during 7th Latin American Research Symposium, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Raleigh, NC. The plasma based hydroponics technology was presented to farmers and agro-food industry representatives at the Emerging Research Showcase organized by NCSU. A poster presentation was made at the New York IFT meeting in New Brunswick, NJ. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?RU: Using a table top model system, we will test the antimicrobial efficacy of PAM. This system can be used for different types of surfaces including basil leaves. Design, develop, and install scaled up PAM system in a greenhouse. Design, develop, and install scaled up a PANS based hydroponic system in a greenhouse. NCSU: Continue hydroponic growth trials for sweet basil with NS and PANS, and analyze plants for growth, yield, shelf-life, quality including aroma profile, and conduct the preliminary sensory evaluation for aroma and color. Evaluate the efficacy of plasma-activated mist (PAM) for inactivation of Salmonella typheriumon basil leaves. DU: Deliver, set-up and operate greenhouse scale PAM DBD plasma system with power up to 300 W at RU greenhouse. Build, deliver, install and operate greenhouse scale PAW system, equipped with gliding arc plasmatron (power up to 3 kW) at RU greenhouse.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Rutgers University (RU): Plasma-activated water (PAW) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) were chemically characterized in terms of pH, electrical conductivity, oxidation-reduction potential, and concentrations of reactive nitrogen species: nitrates and nitrites. Efficacy of plasma-activated water (PAW) to inactivate Enterobacter aerogenes and the efficacy of plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) to reduce algae growth weretested. Sweet basil (Rutgers Devotion DMR variety) plants were grown hydroponically using the nutrient solution (NS) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) in flood-and-drain systems (4 ft x 2 ft, 14 plants per treatment) in enclosed chambers under controlled lights, in three batches. The growth and quality parameters of the basil plants and basil leaves were measured and compared between NS and PANS treatments. The systems werealso characterized in terms of water and energy usage. A bench top scale plasma-activated mist (PAM) system was built to evaluate the efficacy of PAM on microbial inactivation. North Carolina State University (NCSU): Plasma-activated water (PAW) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) were chemically characterized in terms of pH, electrical conductivity, oxidation-reduction potential, and concentration of reactive nitrogen species: nitrates and nitrites. Efficacy of plasma-activated water (PAW) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS)to inactivateE. coliDH5α weretested. Sweet basil (Rutgers Devotion DMR variety) plants were grown hydroponically using the nutrient solution (NS) and plasma-activated nutrient solution (PANS) in flood-and-drain systems (4 ft x 2 ft, 14 plants per treatment) in enclosed chambers under controlled lights, in two separate trials.The yield, growth and quality characteristics of the plants were measured and compared. Initial studies on using plasma-activated mist (PAM) for inactivation of Salmonella typheriumwere performed. Drexel University (DU): Delivered, installed, tested and provided training for three identical flood-and-drain hydroponic water treatment systems (plasma-activated water PAW Systems): one for RU, one for NCSU, and one for DU. Designed, built and delivered to RU, NCSU, and DU three identical plasma-activated mist PAM generation systems. Designed, manufactured, and tested large scale (plasma power up to 300 W) DBD plasma-activated mist system for future installation in a greenhouse located in New Brunswick, NJ (RU). Drexel University is completing validation tests of this system for delivery to RU. Designed a greenhouse scale PAW system and produced drawings for manufacturing of reverse vortex gliding arc plasmatron with power up to 3 kW. RU, NCSU, and DU: External Advisory Board (EAB) meetings were held at Rutgers University on November 19, 2019 and on April 24, 2020. Members from the External Advisory Board participated and provided feedback during the EAB meetings in person or online.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Rivero W, Shin E, Wang Q., and D. Salvi (2020). "Effect of Plasma-activated Nutrient Solution on the Growth and Quality of Hydroponic Sweet Basil." 7th Latin American Research Symposium, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
D. Salvi (2020). "Novel Food Processing Methods for Improving Food Safety and Quality." North Carolina State Emerging Research Showcase: Food, Biochemical & Engineered system, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Effect of Plasma-activated Liquids on the Growth, Quality, and Microbiological Safety of Fresh Produce, Wendy Rivero Penna, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 2020.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Design and Development of Laboratory Scale Hydroponic System for Growing Sweet Basil Using Plasma Activated Nutrient Solution, Manasi Date, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, 2020.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Date M. and Karwe M. (2020). "Design and Development of Laboratory Scale Hydroponic System for Growing Sweet Basil Using Plasma Activated Nutrient Solution (PANS)." New York Institute of Food Technologist Student Night Meeting, New Brunswick, NJ.
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Progress 05/01/18 to 04/30/19
Outputs
Target Audience:Basil greenhouse growers, fresh produce growers using hydroponics, cold plasma equipment manufacturers, fresh produce supermarkets, and agricultural and food scientists. Changes/Problems:• Rutgers Devotion DMR variety was finalized for the experiments at RU, NCSU, and DU to ensure standardization and consistency. • Location for scale-up studies was changed from Rutgers EcoComplex from Bordentown, NJ to a greenhouse located on Cook Campus, of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. The location change was proposed due to unavailability of the greenhouse at Rutgers EcoComplex in Bordentown, NJ. At the time when the proposal was written, this greenhouse was available. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? This project has supported the research training of 2 undergraduate students, 3 graduate students and 2 postdoctoral scholars. Through this interdisciplinary training, these researchers are engaged in both laboratory science and technology development. In addition, the interactions among the team members have generated significant degree of cross-disciplinary collaborative research. Through the interaction with the external advisory board members, the students and post-docs have gained understanding of challenges faced by fresh produce industry using hydroponics. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The results were disseminated through presentations at scientific conferences, USDA project directors'meetingand, industry advisory board meeting. In addition, the following activities were also conducted. A tour of RU greenhouse was provided to EAB members during the EAB meeting. A tour of the lab-scale hydroponic basil growing unit and plasma equipment was provided to 10 summer undergraduate scholars from NCSU Food Science Summer Scholars Program 2019. A tour of the lab and lab-scale hydroponic basil growing unit was provided to visitors from Bangladesh, Brazil, India, and China at RU. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Summary of the Proposed Work for Year 2 Assemble and install PAM units at RU and NCSU Set up and put into use two lab-scale systems (PAW/PAM, control), one at RU and one at NCSU. Grow seedlings (Rutgers Devotion DMR) in the growth chambers. Standardize the plasma operating procedure and apply previously standardized methods for monitoring environmental conditions and qualify yield and check quality. Scale-up the current PAW system to treat large amount of water that can be used at hydroponic systems at greenhouse scale (~150 plants) at RU.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Rutgers University (RU) and North Carolina State University (NCSU): Development of methods for growing sweet basil using hydroponic systems with nutrient solution (RU: 7 plants, 2 ft × 2 ft tub; NCSU: 14 plants, 2 ft x 4 ft tub). A few batches of basil have been grown at both universities. The hydroponic chamber was equipped with temperature, humidity, CO2, and light monitoring systems at NCSU. Installation is in progress at RU for 2 ft × 4 ft system with monitoring systems. Development of methods for yield, morphology, quality (color, texture, and microbiology), nutritional analysis, and shelf-life analysis of sweet basil. Installed two lab-scale gliding arc plasma activated water (PAW) systems, one at RU and NCSU. Drexel University (DU): Designed, developed, and built three identical flood-and-drain hydroponic water treatment systems (PAW Systems): one for RU, one for NCSU, and one for DU. These systems are copies of each other to allow for better comparison and control of experimental findings. These systems were delivered to the respective partners. Designed, developed, and prototyped the PAM generation system. Drexel University is completing validation tests for vendor to create, again, three identical PAM systems: one for each university. The anticipated completion date is late August to early September 2019. NCSU, RU and DU: First External Advisory Board (EAB) meeting was held at Rutgers University on April 15, 2019. Members from External Advisory Board participated and provided feedback during EAB meeting in person or via Zoom.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Salvi D., M.V. Karwe and Fridman Gregory (2019). An integrated approach for improving growth and quality of sweet basil using cold plasma activated water and mist. Annual Grantees meeting (USDA NIFA) New Orleans, LA, June 2, 2019
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Mukund V. Karwe, Juzhong Tan, and Manasi Date (2019). Improving growth and quality of sweet basil using cold plasma activated water and mist. 12th Annual Nutrition, Endocrinology & Food Science (NEFS) Graduate Student Conference, New Brunswick, NJ, April 2, 2019.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Alexander Fridman, Gregory Fridman, Charles Bailey, Alexander Rabinovich, Christopher Sales, Jasreen Sekhon (2019). DBD and GlidArcs in Plasma Agriculture and Food Safety. 24th International Symposium on Plasma Chemistry, Naples, Italy.
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