Cold Radiofrequency Plasma Treatment Modifi es Wettability and Germination Rate of Plant Seeds

We report the possibility to modify the wetting properties of the surfaces of a diversity of seeds including: lentils (Lens culinaris), beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) and wheat (Triticum, species C9) by cold radiofrequency air plasma treatment. Air plasma treatment leads to a dramatic decrease in the apparent and advancing contact angles. Moreover, the germination rate of seeds could be modifi ed by plasma treatment. The change in the wetting properties of seeds is at least partially due to oxidation of their surface under plasma treatment. Signifi cant increase of peaks corresponding to the nitrogen containing groups in the mass spectra of air plasma treated seeds was found.