Atmospheric pressure gliding arc discharge plasma treatments for improving germination, growth and yield of wheat

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) seeds were treated with atmospheric pressure gliding arc discharge plasmas to investigate the effects on water absorption, seed germination rate, seedling growth and yield in wheat. The surface architectures and functionalities of the seeds were found to modify due to plasma treatments. 6min treatment was provided 95%–100% germination rate. For the treatment duration of 3 and 9 min the growth activity, dry matter accumulation, leaves chlorophyll contents, longest spikes, number of spikes/spikelet and total soluble protein content in shoots were improved. The grain yield of wheat was increased ∼20% by 6min treatment with H ₂ O/O ₂ plasma with respect to control.