Researchers have developed a new electronic soil that was found to increase the growth of barley seedlings by 50 per cent in a new study.
About the eSoil:
In hydroponic environments, eSoil is a low-power bioelectronic growth substrate that can electrically stimulate the root system and growth environment of plants.
This novel substrate is environmentally friendly, being derived from cellulose and a conductive polymer called PEDOT.It offers a low energy, safe alternative to previous methods that required high voltage and non-biodegradable materials.
It uses low energy and minimizes resource consumption.Its active material is an organic mixed-ionic electronic conductor.
How does eSoil work?
When the roots of barley seedlings were electrically stimulated for 15 days, they showed a 50% increase in growth using eSoil.
This research promotes more effective and sustainable development while increasing the variety of crops that can be grown hydroponically.
In hydroponics, plants are grown without soil, requiring only water, nutrients and a substrate - something for their roots to attach to.
This closed system allows water to be recirculated, ensuring that each seedling receives exactly the nutrients it needs.
As a result, very little wateris used and all the nutrients remain in the system - something that is not possible with conventional farming.
Benefit: It can help in areas with little arable land and harsh environmental conditions.
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