Student Seminar: Plant Growth under the Influence of Electric Field: Challenges and Innovations

Title:  Plant Growth under the Influence of Electric Field: Challenges and Innovations

Venue: Rajarshi Bhattacharya Memorial  Lecture Hall, Chemical Sciences Building

The response of plants to various physical stimuli, such as light, temperature, and gravity, is not very well understood. Research findings show that the electric field affects seed germination, growth, physiology, and plants’ tolerance behavior. In addition, electric fields can rapidly disrupt seed dormancy and increase seed germination by improving the enzyme activity, stored material consumption, and membrane permeability of seeds. Regulation of physiological processes such as photosynthesis, cellular redox balance, and nutrient assimilation by electric fields promotes plant growth.In this context, I will discuss two recent developments in the electrical stimulation of plants. The first case study describes an electroactive hydroponic substrate, called eSoil, that acts as a stimulating electrode and a growth scaffold, providing electrical stimulation to the plants’ root system. In the second case study, discussions will focus on an environmentally driven mechanical energy-based electrical stimulation system using a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). With the advantages of high output, low friction, and excellent robustness, the all-weather-TENG will speed up the germination and growth of peas. Despite these advances, the electrical response at the molecular level, especially the effects of electric fields on essential plant substances, remains largely unexplored. In my talk,I will address some of these challenges.