Laser Irradiation of Vigna Radiata L. (Mung Bean) at Two Wavelengths: Effects on Seedling Development

Date of Award

2019

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Physics

Department

Physics

First Advisor

Raphael A. Guerrero, PhD

Abstract

The use of lasers in agriculture has led to improved growth and development of crops and vegetables, increasing production and ensuring food security. In this study, two laser sources operating at wavelengths of 632.8 nm (He-Ne) and 488 nm (Ar+ ) are used in examining the effects of coherent, low-power, continuous wave exposure on the development of mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) at an early stage. Pre- sowing laser irradiation of seeds leads to an improvement of mung bean seedling characteristics, with increased values of hypocotyl length (an increase of up to 22.5%), root length (an increase of up to 28.8%), and seedling mass (a maximum increase of 29.2%). Measured parameters between seedlings from laser-irradiated seeds and from control samples are statistically different at a level of significance equal to 0.05. For both laser wavelengths, an optimal exposure time of 2 minutes is determined for enhanced growth of mung bean seedlings. The findings of this dissertation research may be used to facilitate an increase in Philippine mung bean production. Increased mung bean production is expected to have a positive impact on the income of farmers and may help in addressing issues related to national food security.

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