Scientists from Linköping University in Sweden have developed eSoil, bioelectronic soil that can accelerate the growth of root crops. There is already talk of up to 50 percent improvement in efficiency.
A Swedish team of scientists from Linköping University has developed an electrically conductive growing medium, eSoil, adapted to hydroponic cultivation (based on mineral substrate and water).
The newly developed e-soil was integrated into the casings in which the seedlings grew, demonstrating the ability to accelerate plant growth. Combining organic substances with a conductive polymer called PEDOT (which can be found in sensors and OLED displays) allows the plant roots to be stimulated by sending electrical signals.
Dr. Eleni Stavrinidou, head of the research group, explained that soil conductivity proved to be crucial for stimulating plant roots. A study conducted on barley seedlings showed that applying a voltage of just 0.5 V to e-soil caused a rapid increase in plant biomass. Scientists observed that barley seedlings electrically stimulated for 15 days grew on average 50 percent faster than those that were not stimulated.
The electronically stimulated root system is a prelude to discussions about what modern plant cultivation based on technology should look like. Although hydroponic growing methods are mainly used in the context of growing leafy greens and some vegetables such as cucumbers and tomatoes, eSoil can be a key tool for developing new strategies to increase yields in a commercial setting. Particularly where environmental conditions influence plant growth.
The numerical indicators associated with the innovation described here suggest that bioelectronic soil may be an important solution for increasing the yield of future crops and maximizing their energy efficiency. It will also reduce the use of chemical fertilizers.
Sources:
https://www.engadget.com/swedish-researchers-develop-electronic-soil-that-speeds-up-plant-growth-205630538.html?guccounter=1
