By using water, air, and electricity, it is possible to produce plasma water. VitalFluid has developed machines with 'a technological imitation of lightning striking rain', resulting in Plasma Activated Water (PAW). At present, the company is deploying this technology for the natural control of fungal diseases. Successful trials are underway in both the United Kingdom and the United States, and there is significant interest from growers due to the many benefits of PAW.
The recent trials, including trials covering more than 10 hectares, confirm what many growers are seeking, explains Mark van Boxtel. He worked at VitalFluid until the end of last year and has recently returned to the Eindhoven-based company to focus on selling this technology for natural fungal disease control. "Growers are looking for a natural solution that effectively protects crops without causing damage."
© VitalFluidMark van Boxtel
Trials with cucumber and strawberry
In recent months, strawberry and cucumber growers in greenhouses and polytunnels have applied PAW directly to their crops. The feedback is clear, the sales manager shares. "PAW has successfully controlled fungal diseases, making it a good sustainable alternative to chemical crop protection products. As the season progresses and pressure from diseases such as powdery mildew increases, PAW is proving its value as a reliable tool for maintaining healthy plants." Mark adds, "Growers are always looking for practical solutions that keep crops safe while moving away from chemicals. The trails confirm that Plasma Activated Water does exactly that: offering natural, non-chemical and effective disease control, while fitting seamlessly into daily operations."
On-site production
In cucumber trials, PAW achieved an efficacy of 90%. For strawberries, this was 81%. No crop damage was observed, nor was there any residue, therefore no MRL and no re-entry interval. "This makes it an excellent alternative to chemical fungicides."
Growers can generate PAW on-site using VitalFluid's Vidar system. PAW can also be used in growers' standard spraying systems.
Approved in the US and UK markets
VitalFluid's current focus is on the UK and US. In these countries, PAW is regarded as a sustainable alternative based on a physical process, allowing growers to implement the innovation immediately. Market access in Europe is work in progress, aiming for PAW to avoid the lengthy approval processes required for traditional chemical products.
Science-based solution
In its self-developed machines, VitalFluid's 'lightning process' creates free radicals. "We have found the right recipe to get the right composition out of the process, resulting in powerful disinfection without causing crop damage." Mark is very enthusiastic about it. "We are well on our way making the world a better place with an alternative to harmful chemicals."
Now that these initial international trials have confirmed the technology's performance under real commercial conditions, VitalFluid is ready for broader deployment. The company, which is backed by investors including Horticoop, Future Food Fund, and Innovation Industries, works closely with growers, researchers, and industry partners to apply this innovation to more businesses worldwide.
For more information:
VitalFluid
Email: [email protected]
vitalfluid.com
