Analysis of seed dormancy breakage and seedling growth in sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) through the electrical stimulation method: a scientific perspective aimed at promoting bioethanol production

Abstract

This pioneering study meticulously focused on the underexplored realm of sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.), utilizing commercial seeds to mitigate potential biases. The research intricately interwove the intricate facets of electrical stimulation, delineating its profound implications on the estimative bioethanol production of sweet sorghum, with potential extrapolation to future investigations involving sugarcane. Executed within the controlled confines of a greenhouse, after seed treatment procured from a local market, the commercial seeds underwent an electrifying metamorphosis. In the pursuit of enhancing the fresh biomass output of sweet sorghum, a nuanced interplay with electrical currents transpired. Noteworthy findings surfaced, elucidating that the attainment of optimal outcomes necessitated meticulous control over the applied electrical current. The identified optimal parameter advocated maintaining a conservative threshold of 50 mA during a seed treatment duration spanning approximately 15 min. However, as the experimental cadence intensified, the narrative evolved with a bold revelation, indicating that exploration of higher electrical currents, peaking at 150 mA, could yield favorable results under the condition of a truncated seed treatment time, notably as brief as 5 min. The delicate equilibrium achieved in this electrical choreography presented a compelling prospect for redefining the production paradigm of sweet sorghum. After analyzing the germination results, the estimative production projections derived from treatment #3 paint a vivid picture of the sorghum biomass production potential. A visionary forecast materialized, envisioning an impressive 25 t/ha of sweet sorghum, coupled with a remarkable total conversion rate into bioethanol reaching 1.5 million cubic meters. This transcendence transcends the boundaries of a conventional study; it signifies a leap into the future, pushing the envelope of conventional wisdom in the relentless pursuit of innovation in sustainable energy.