Cold plasma for insect pest control: Tribolium castaneum mortality and defense mechanisms in response to treatment. Issue 10 (26th July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ziuzina, Dana; van Cleynenbreugel, Robin; Tersaruolo, Claudio; Bourke, Paula
• Is Part Of: Plasma processes and polymers. Volume 18:Issue 10(2021)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2021-07-26
• Subjects: cold plasma -- insecticidal effect -- mortality -- oxidative stress -- Tribolium castaneum; Plasma polymerization -- Periodicals; Plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition -- Periodicals; Plasma chemistry -- Periodicals
• DOI: 10.1002/ppap.202000178
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1612-8850

Abstract

Abstract : Direct atmospheric cold plasma treatment significantly reduces the viability of preadult insects' stages within seconds of treatment. Longer treatment is needed to inactivate adult insects. The change in oxidative stress markers correlates with the mortality rates of insects, suggesting that higher plasma doses can cause severe oxidative damage to adult insects. Oxidative stress arising from the action of reactive oxygen species could be one of the possible mechanisms of plasma target toxicity. Abstract: The insecticidal properties and mechanisms of high‐voltage air‐based atmospheric cold plasma using a contained dielectric barrier discharge reactor were investigated against Tribolium castaneum as an important bio‐contaminant in stored grains spoilage. The mortality of 95.0%–100% for preadult stages can be achieved within seconds of treatment, but longer plasma exposure (5 min) is required to kill adult insects. Cold plasma treatment reduces both the respiration rate and the weight of insects and affects the levels of oxidative stress markers in adult populations. Sufficient toxicity is achievable through plasma process control in air to address the range of insect lifecycle stages that are disease vectors and pose risks for grain stability in storage. Balancing insecticidal activity with grains' quality retention can provide a route to sustainable integrated pest management.