Water Technology Lab, Chemical Department, IIT Ropar
Nanobubble technology has emerged as a game-changer in hydroponics by enhancing oxygen availability, improving nutrient absorption, and fostering healthier plant growth. Unlike conventional aeration, nanobubbles provide ultra-fine, long-lasting bubbles that penetrate root zones effectively, optimizing dissolved oxygen levels. Hydroponics, a soilless farming method, relies on water quality and nutrient availability for plant development. This study evaluates the impact of nanobubble-enriched oxygenated water on key growth parameters of coriander and lettuce compared to a control using deionized water. In this study, we used the NanoAqua N-5 Nanobubble Generator to generate nanobubbles for hydroponic irrigation, significantly enhancing oxygen availability, nutrient absorption, and overall plant growth efficiency.
The primary objective of this study was to assess the influence of nanobubble technology on key plant growth parameters, including the number of leaves, shoot length, root length, fresh weight, and dry weight.
Experimental Setup
- The hydroponic system consisted of nutrient-rich water reservoirs where plants were grown without soil.
- The NanoAqua N-5 nanobubble generator was integrated into the system to continuously oxygenate the water.
- Water enriched with nanobubbles was circulated using a controlled flow mechanism to ensure uniform distribution.
- Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light exposure were monitored to maintain optimal growing conditions.
Key Observations:
- Enhanced Growth: Plants treated with nanobubble-enriched water exhibited a notable increase in all measured growth parameters compared to those irrigated with deionized water.
- Shoot Length Increase: Coriander and lettuce showed an increase of 26% and 9% in shoot length, respectively, when treated with nanobubbles.
- Root Length Enhancement: The root length of coriander improved by 23%, while lettuce roots grew 19% longer under nanobubble conditions.
- Higher Biomass Accumulation: Fresh and dry weight measurements indicated a substantial rise, with coriander showing a 35% increase in fresh weight and lettuce showing an 82% increase.
- Improved Leaf Count: Both coriander and lettuce exhibited an increased number of leaves, contributing to higher photosynthetic activity and overall plant vigor.
Conclusion This study demonstrates that nanobubble technology significantly enhances hydroponic plant growth by improving oxygenation and nutrient absorption. The application of oxygen-enriched nanobubbles resulted in increased biomass, longer shoot and root development, and greater leaf proliferation. These findings suggest that incorporating nanobubble technology in hydroponic systems can lead to more sustainable and productive crop cultivation.
Acknowledgment This study was conducted at IIT Ropar’s Water Technology Lab Chemical Department. Special thanks to the research team for their contribution to data collection and analysis.
Download Hydroponic Growth of Coriander and Lettuce Case Study Pdf.
