Sulphur nanoparticles for enhanced drought tolerance in durum wheat
Explore the use of sulphur nanoparticles as a green mutagen to improve drought tolerance and quality in durum wheat, with trials on Kazakhstani varieties Damsinskaya Amber and Aina.
Overview
This innovative research explores the application of sulphur nanoparticles (SNPs) as a "green mutagen" to enhance drought tolerance and improve the quality of durum wheat. The study focuses on two prominent Kazakhstani wheat varieties, Damsinskaya Amber and Aina. By combining SNPs with surfactants like Tween-20, the research aims to optimize the mutagenic efficiency and nutrient uptake, potentially leading to improved yield, resistance, and nutritional value.
Technical specifications
- Mutagenic Compounds: Diethyl sulfate (DES), sulfonates, and sulfonamides combined with sulphur nanoparticles.
- Surfactants Used: Tween-20 and Polysorbate-20 to enhance uptake and wettability.
- Treatment Methods: Seed soaking and foliar sprays with SNP suspensions (50-200 mg/L).
- Validation: Dual-laboratory and environmental trials (dry and irrigated conditions), physiological and biochemical tests, and screening for grain content, size, and disease resistance.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 6, indicating that it has been tested in relevant environments and is ready for further validation in expanded field trials.
About Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
Al-Farabi Kazakh National University is a large comprehensive public research university in Almaty, with about 26,000 students and a broad academic and research profile. Its industry-facing model combines research institutes and laboratories with engineering and high-technology infrastructure, including the Farabi Hub innovation platform and specialized robotics and digital-technology facilities. The university also works through industry forums, business agreements, international partnerships, and emerging connections to Almaty’s wider innovation ecosystem. Research is supported primarily through competitive funding from Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Science and Higher Education, its Science Committee, and the national Science Foundation. A dedicated Center for Technology Commercialization and Creative Industries supports researchers and entrepreneurs from idea development through market entry.
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