Evaluation of the effect of microwave heating modes on the germination ability of lupine seeds

Abstract

Technologies based on the use of the energy of electric, magnetic and electromagnetic fields can be successfully applied in agricultural production. According to the available research results, it can be quite reliably asserted that during the pre-sowing treatment of agricultural seeds, it is possible to use microwave electromagnetic fields. A feature of such technologies is the experimental determination of the parameters of microwave exposure. The materials of the article contain the results of experimental studies to assess the temperature effect of microwave energy on the germination ability of lupine seeds. Regression equations are obtained in coded and natural variables to assess the effect of the final temperature and microwave heating rate on the germination ability of lupine seeds. Analysis of the results obtained indicates that the final result of microwave seed treatment depends on each factor separately and on their relationship. In addition, it is necessary to strictly observe the processing regimes, since the seeds are sensitive to energy effects and, in addition to the stimulation effect, you can get a negative result or get into the zone of insensitivity. According to the data obtained, the best result of microwave stimulation of lupine seeds is observed when the seeds are heated to 50 °C at a heating rate of 0.46 °C/s. Compared to the results of wheat seed treatment, higher final temperatures and microwave heating rates are required to stimulate lupine seeds. In addition, for a positive result of processing, it is necessary to take into account that the microwave heating rate of the seeds determines the final temperature of their heating. To stimulate lupine seeds, it is possible to recommend microwave heating to 50-51 °C at a microwave heating rate of 0.46-0.47 °C/s.