Developing Sterilization and Lighting Systems for Sprouting Rooms Using Ozone and Optical Fibers

Abstract

The increasing population has led to the widespread adoption of hydroponics. Hydroponic production of fresh green forage requires minimal space, does not use soil, and allows for rapid harvesting. A fully controlled sprouting room can yield a substantial amount of green fodder from a small area with less water consumption. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of ozone on seed germination, seedling growth, and microbial sterilization during germinated barley processing. Additionally, the sterilization of the barley sprouting room was conducted using ultraviolet and infrared light, which provides optimal sprouting conditions.The study comprises three experimental variables: three levels of ozonized water (13, 26, and 39 mg L-1) combined with three light sources (fluorescent, infrared, and ultraviolet) and three light duration times (8, 16, and 24 h). The measurements include shoot length, fresh yield weight, dry yield weight, conversion factor, chlorophyll content, N, P, K, crude protein, ash, and log reduction.The results indicated that the maximum values were observed when using ozonized water at 39 mg L-1, Ultraviolet LED as a light source, and a sterilizing medium with a light duration time of 24 h. Conversely, the minimum values were observed when using ozonized water at 13 mg L-1, fluorescent LEDs as a light source, and a light duration time of 8 h. Based on the findings, it is highly recommended to utilize the developed sprouting room throughout the year for the production of fresh forage.