Electron Emission-Driven Gas-Liquid Plasma: Seed Sterilization and Surface Modification

Abstract

Herein we introduce a novel atmospheric streamer plasma device that employs a custom-designed electrode configuration to concentrate the electric field (~60 kV/cm) in a localized region, allowing electron emission and the generation of corona and streamer discharge plasma in an atmospheric ambient. We also introduce electrohydraulic streamer discharge plasma (ESDP), a promising plasma system that combines streamer discharge plasma and plasma-activated water (PAW) at a gas-liquid interface. This system has potential applications in seed sterilization and nanoscale surface modification. Our findings demonstrate that ESDP reduces fungal contamination on Chinese kale seeds by~75% and significantly improves the proportion of healthy seedlings. The combination of nonthermal (gas discharge) plasma and PAW offers advanced disinfection solutions for various applications, including biological, medicinal, environmental, and agricultural fields.