Carboxylic acid functionalized carbon nanotubes for plant growth regulation and stress tolerance

Overview

This solution uses carboxylic acid functionalized carbon nanotubes as a plant growth regulator to address key challenges in agriculture and forestry. The technology targets seed dormancy, low germination rates, and abiotic stress vulnerability in boreal forest species and crop plants. By remodeling the cell membrane lipidome, the treatment enhances seedling vigor and supports propagation under varying climate conditions. Applications include crop cultivation, forest reclamation, and establishment of stress-tolerant propagules for challenging environments.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• Carboxylic acid functionalized carbon nanotubes applied at concentrations of 20-40 µg/mL consistently achieve greater than 90% germination rates compared to 60% or less in untreated controls
• Effective across multiple upland and peatland boreal forest species with varying levels of seed dormancy
• Can be combined with stratification, gibberellic acid, and scarification treatments to resolve different types of seed dormancy
• Induces broad-spectrum abiotic stress tolerance in emerged seedlings, measured by significant increases in seedling vigor index
• Mechanism of action involves significant alterations in the seedling membrane lipidome, correlating with both improved germination and enhanced stress tolerance
• Delivery systems under further validation include chemical and nanopriming approaches, including combinations with hexanoic acids

Technology readiness level

The technology has been validated through laboratory studies demonstrating successful dormancy resolution and stress tolerance induction in four boreal forest species. Future validation will involve controlled environment testing in growth chambers and greenhouses over a period of six months to one year, targeting select boreal forest and crop species. The research team is seeking partnerships for funding, germination testing equipment, personnel support, and assistance with translation and adoption of results.