Electrostatic Spore-Trapping Techniques for Managing Airborne Conidia Dispersed by the Powdery Mildew Pathogen

Abstract

This review examines the progress of electrostatic spore-trapping research and the potential for the practical application of electrostatic apparatuses in powdery mildew control. These apparatuses produce an electric field by charging an insulated conductor wire (ICW). Airborne pathogen spores are subjected to an attractive force in the electric field and are drawn to the charged ICW as a result of dielectrophoretic movement. The strength of the attractive force is commensurate with the field strength (determined by the magnitude of the voltage applied to the ICW). Single-charged monopolar electric field screens (SM screens) are constructed by arraying negatively charged cylindrical ICWs in parallel at a specific interval. The connected electric fields of these ICWs form a gap-free air-shielding barrier. Wind-dispersed spores are precipitated by this barrier to create spore-free air. Oppositely charged SM screens have been combined to develop double-charged dipolar electric field screens, which generate a stronger spore attraction force under lower voltage application. Thus, electric field screens represent a promising physical method for creating spore-free spaces in cropping facilities, where plants can be cultivated without risk of infection by airborne fungal pathogens.

Effects of Fungicides on Fungal Development, Conidiophore Morphology, and Conidial Releases from Single Strawberry Powdery Mildew Colonies Assessed Using an Electrostatic Technique

“…In actual, a negatively charged dielectric body (insulator plate) is used to electrostatically induce the PM fungi, instead of charging the surface (surrounding) of the PM fungi (i.e., conidia) with static electricity, by spray-treating with the fungicides (some ingredients) having anti-static properties. Consequently, the PM fungi become net positive and, due to Coulomb force, are captured by a plate that is oppositely charged [38]. Eventually, using the electrostatic technique, the asexual conidia are successfully collected from fungicide-spray-treated PM colonies without being affected by some ingredients (i.e., ionic surfactant sodium oleate) of the fungicides having anti-static properties.…”

Functional and Quality Assessment of a Spore Harvester for Entomopathogenic Fungi for Biopesticide Production

“…Furthermore, efficient and gentle harvesting techniques can increase the yield and quality of conidia, resulting in more effective pest control. In recent years, new technologies such as microfluidics and electrostatic methods have shown promise in improving conidia harvesting efficiency while minimizing damage to the spores [20][21][22].…”

Electrostatic Techniques for Physically Managing Pathogens, Insect Pests, and Weeds in Field and Greenhouse Cropping Systems

“…These electric field-based devices are known as electric field screens and are of three types: single-charged monopolar, single-charged dipolar, and double-charged dipolar [5]. The force generated by these electric field screens has been harnessed to capture airborne spores [7], plant pollen [8], and flying insect pests [9,10]. In contrast, a different type of device, constructed with a non-insulated charged conductor, generates an arc (spark) discharge aimed at targets [11].…”