Commercial-scale nitrogen-modified atmosphere for the disinfestation of soft wheat stored in big bags
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: In the present study, the efficacy of nitrogen-based modified atmospheres was evaluated in a commercial chamber containing big bags of soft wheat. A three-dimensional diffusion model, calibrated against the measured in-bag oxygen data, was used to predict nitrogen penetration to the core of the big bag. Bioassays were conducted against adults of Sitophilus oryzae and Tribolium castaneum, as well as adults, larvae, and eggs of Ephestia kuehniella. Insects were exposed to nitrogen under low-oxygen conditions at two temperatures, 32 and 40°C, and two exposure intervals, 2 and 3 days. Mortality and F1 progeny production were assessed after treatment. Adult mortality of S. oryzae and T. castaneum reached 100% under all tested combinations of temperature and exposure time, indicating high susceptibility of these species to nitrogen. In contrast, the immature stages of E. kuehniella were more tolerant, particularly at 32°C, where complete control was not achieved even after extending exposure from 2 to 3 days. Increasing the temperature to 40°C markedly improved treatment efficacy and provided the most consistent suppression across the tested life stages. Progeny production was also reduced after nitrogen exposure. The diffusion models indicated that the bag interior reached the target low-oxygen atmosphere with only a moderate delay relative to the sampling depth. Among the tested protocols, 40°C for 3 days appears to be the most robust treatment combination, especially when tolerant immature stages are present.
Source: Research Square
Institutions: University of Thessaly, Ordu University, University of the Aegean
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7221585048