Cold plasma technology in seed science: Emerging applications and innovations

Cold plasma technology has emerged as a promising tool in the field of plant science and agriculture. Cold plasma, also known as non-thermal plasma, is a partially ionized gas composed of ions, electrons, neutral molecules, and reactive species, generated at or near room temperature. Unlike thermal plasma, cold plasma can be applied to biological materials such as seeds and plants without causing thermal damage, making it highly suitable for agricultural applications. In the context of seed science and plant technology, cold plasma offers a range of benefits. It has been shown to enhance seed germination, improve seedling vigor, and decontaminate seeds by inactivating pathogens and degrading pesticide residues on the seed surface. The reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS) generated during plasma treatment can modify the seed coat, increase water uptake, and trigger metabolic activities critical for early growth stages. Beyond seeds, cold plasma treatments are being explored for plant growth promotion, stress tolerance enhancement, and post-harvest preservation. These applications align with the goals of sustainable agriculture, as cold plasma is a chemical-free, environmentally friendly alternative to conventional treatments. Despite its growing potential, the underlying mechanisms of cold plasma interactions with plant systems are still under investigation. One of the difficulties encountered during the current investigations was the lack of defined protocols for exposure length, gas type, pressure, voltage, or the distance between the plasma and seed source coupled with underlying molecular mechanisms. Continued interdisciplinary research is essential to optimize treatment protocols, ensure safety, and fully harness this innovative technology in agriculture.