Vol. 10, Issue 11 (2021)

Author(s):
Ashoknarayanan S, S Sundareswaran, K Raja and PON Sathya Moorthy

Abstract:
Quantum dots (QDs) are an advanced form of nanoparticles having a size of 1-10 nm. In this study, zinc oxide (ZnO) QDs were synthesised at approximately 8 nm in size and used as an advanced nanomaterial to improve the seed quality attributes of blackgram. The results demonstrated that the seeds primed with 80 ppm ZnO QDs for 2 hours improved the speed of germination, germination percentage, root and shoot length, seedling vigour and field emergence. However, ZnO QDs at higher concentrations (> 300 ppm) reduced the physiological activities of the seed as the soaking period advanced. Catalase, peroxidase, α-amylase and dehydrogenase enzyme activities were also significantly and positively influenced by ZnO QDs. Hence, this study concludes that ZnO QDs seed priming improved the seed germination and seedling vigour of blackgram.