Powder containing biomolecules from Diaporthe schini for weed control

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Biotechnology
• Plant Science

Background:

• Submerged fermentation of Diaporthe schini produces biomolecules with potential herbicidal activity.
• Developing stable, solid formulations of bioherbicides is crucial for practical application.
• Controlling post-emergence weeds like Bidens pilosa and Amaranthus viridis is essential for crop yield.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize spray drying conditions for producing a potent bioherbicide powder.
• To evaluate the efficacy of the spray-dried bioherbicide against key weed species.
• To determine the suitability of spray drying for commercial bioherbicide formulation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized spray drying technology to formulate biomolecules from Diaporthe schini.
• Investigated various additives, with lactose identified as optimal.
• Optimized process variables including inlet air temperature, drying air flow rate, and feed flow rate.

Main Results:

• Lactose additive enhanced herbicidal activity and weed suppression.
• Optimal conditions yielded maximum herbicidal activities of 38% (B. pilosa) and 45% (A. viridis).
• Significant weed height reductions were observed, up to 74.3% for A. viridis.

Conclusions:

• Spray drying is a viable technology for producing solid bioherbicide formulations.
• The developed bioherbicide demonstrates effectiveness in suppressing weed growth.
• Optimized spray drying parameters enhance the efficacy of Diaporthe schini-derived bioherbicides.